A driveshaft is accountable for transferring engine electric power from the tranny to the differential and onto the travel wheels. A driveshaft could be one or two pieces with a middle support bearing in the centre. There happen to be universal joints at either end of the driveshaft which become flex joints that allow the differential to move upward when the automobile contacts a bump. A front driveshaft yoke can be used to hook up to the Front Drive Shaft transmission while a backside driveshaft flange is used to connect to the differential. On older models the rear U joint bolts right to the differential without by using a rear flange. On the front wheel drive vehicles there are two travel shafts which are referred to as CV axles.
Driveshaft themselves have hardly any problems with the exception of becoming bent if they are exposed to an obstruction. However the U joints could cause challenges which are a part of the driveshaft such as for example chirping and clucking when the automobile is moving or put into gear.
Something you need to understand that may not be thought of is when a driveshaft is taken away the car will no longer maintain park. The automobile will roll because the link between your drive wheels and tranny is removed. You need to raise the car or truck up using a flooring jack and jackstays. Dress in protective eyewear and gloves before you begin.
Indicate the driveshaft orientation before beginning. This will help gain the driveshaft to its unique placement on the differential that may help avoid driveline vibrations after the driveshaft is reinstalled.
Using a plastic hammer lightly shock the driveshaft 
loose via the differential flange simply by striking the rear yoke (U joint attach). At this time the back 1 / 2 of the shaft will be free so keep hold of it. On some automobiles you will see a center support which should be undone by taking away the two centre support installation bolts. When removing an older vehicle drive shaft make use of electrical tape to wrap around the u joint cups thus they don't fall off and relieve the cup needle bearings.
On front wheel travel cars the driveshaft is not used. The transmission and differential is merged into one unit called a transaxle.
All shafts are reassembled with fresh universal joints and CV centering kits with grease fittings and so are then completely greased with the correct lubricant. All shafts will be straightened and computer balanced and analyzed to closer tolerances than OEM specifications.
The drive shaft is the part on the lower right side of the picture. The various other end of it would be linked to the transmission.