General description of drive shafts (Opel Vectra A)

Drive is transmitted from the differential to the wheels by two drive shafts, each with a CV joint at each end. On some models, the right drive shaft is made up of two parts - a drive shaft with two CV joints and a simple intermediate shaft. The inner CV joint of the drive shaft is also seated in grooves on the end of the intermediate shaft. The intermediate shaft rests at this point on a bearing mounted on a bracket bolted to the rear of the engine block.

Both ends of the drive shafts are splined. The inner ends of the shafts are inserted into the differentials and secured with retaining rings, and their outer ends are inserted into the front wheel hubs and secured with hub nuts. The right drive shaft is longer than the left due to the position of the differential. Some models are equipped with a two-section vibration damper installed on the right drive shaft.