Checking the condition of the protective covers of the drive shafts (Skoda Felicia)

1. Jack up the car and place it on supports. Turn the steering wheel all the way and slowly rotate the front wheel, visually assessing the condition of the rubber protective boot of the outer CV joint of the drive shaft, periodically opening the folds of the corrugation. The presence of cracks, tears and signs of aging of the material can lead to the development of grease leaks, fraught with the ingress of moisture and dirt into the joint and premature wear of the latter. Assess the reliability of the boot fastening with metal bandage tapes. Repeat the check for the outer CV joint of the second drive shaft, then assess the condition of the inner CV joints. Defective boots are subject to mandatory replacement.

2. At the same time, you should assess the general condition of the joints themselves, for which you should grab the drive shaft and try to rotate the wheel (outer CV joint), then take hold of the inner CV joint and try to rotate the shaft. The presence of any noticeable play indicates wear of the corresponding joint, splines of the drive shaft journal, or loosening of the fastening nut.

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