Power is transmitted from the transaxle to the wheels through a pair of axle shafts. The inner end of each axle shaft is splined into the differential side gears. The outer ends of the axle shafts are splined to the axle hubs and locked in place by a large nut. The inner ends of the axle shafts are equipped with tripod-type constant velocity joints which are capable of both angular and axial motion. The outer CV joints are the ball and cage type. The boots should be inspected periodically for damage and leaking lubricant. Torn CV joint boots must be replaced as soon as possible or the joints can be damaged. Boot replacement involves removal of the axle shaft. The most common symptom of worn or damaged CV joints, besides lubricant leaks, is a clicking noise in turns, a clunk when accelerating after coasting and vibration at highway speeds. To check for wear in the CV joints and axle shaft shafts, grasp each axle (one at a time) and rotate it in both directions while holding the CV joint housings, feeling for play indicating worn splines or sloppy CV joints.