When removing a Driveshaft for U-joint replacement, what is the first step to take?

• A. Mark the shaft for reassembly
• B. Raise the vehicle
• C. Remove the driveshaft bolts
• D. Drain the differential

Answer: (A)

Marking the driveshaft before removal ensures you reinstall it in the exact same orientation, preserving its balance and the correct phasing of the u-joints and yokes. Driveshafts are balanced as a unit, and the relationship between the shaft and its flanges must be kept the same to avoid vibrations or premature wear once reassembled. After marking, you proceed with accessing the shaft (such as raising the vehicle for clearance) and removing the bolts. Draining the differential isn’t required for a standard u-joint replacement, so it isn’t part of the initial step. The key idea is to mark the shaft so it can be put back exactly as it came out.