7 Signs Your Driveshaft is Unbalanced

The driveshaft is essential in any vehicle, whether you drive a compact sedan or a massive commercial motor vehicle. It transfers torque from the transmission to the differential, which distributes that produced power to the wheels.

In large vehicles, the importance of the driveshaft is magnified, considering the demanding nature of their operations. They routinely handle heavy loads and long distances, so the resulting issues can quickly become exponentially problematic when the driveshaft is unbalanced. Recognizing the common symptoms of an unbalanced driveshaft can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with them. Here are the most common indicators of an unbalanced driveshaft.

How Do You Know If Your Driveshaft is Unbalanced?

Unfortunately, a driveshaft can become unbalanced. When it does, it usually triggers multiple symptoms of an unbalanced driveshaft. The issue can manifest in multiple ways, but the most common unbalanced driveshaft symptoms include:

1.    Vibrations

If you notice that the vehicle seems to vibrate when you drive, there’s a good chance that your driveshaft needs some attention. You might feel the vibrations throughout the cabin, especially at higher speeds or under heavy loads. The problem is often more pronounced in larger, heavier vehicles, like semi-trucks.

While some vibration isn’t abnormal, a noticeable increase in vibration levels is indicative of a problem. Sometimes, this problem can be the result of an imbalance in the driveshaft. This causes uneven rotation, leading to vibrations that you might feel through the steering wheel, seat, or even the floorboards.

2.    Strange Sounds

Unusual noises are a nightmare for drivers, regardless of whether you’re behind the wheel of a compact SUV or a semi-truck. They’re usually a telltale sign of issues, some more serious than others. In this case, an unbalanced driveshaft can be the culprit behind the abnormal clunking sounds.

You might hear clunking, banging, or knocking sounds, especially when shifting gears or accelerating. This can indicate an unbalanced driveshaft. The sound occurs because the unbalanced driveshaft creates irregular forces within the drivetrain, leading components to clash or move unexpectedly.

If you don’t take care of it sooner rather than later, the problem will worsen and may even cause the U-joints, bearings, or other connected parts to fail.

3.    Difficulty Turning

Turning effectively is a must in any vehicle, especially a massive truck. A well-balanced driveshaft is a big part of this. It ensures smooth power delivery to the wheels, which is vital for maintaining control, especially during turns.

So, if you notice that it’s tougher to turn or your truck feels unstable when navigating curves, the problem might lie with the driveshaft. An unbalanced driveshaft can disrupt the uniform distribution of torque, making it tougher to steer and maintain control of the vehicle. In a vehicle as large as a semi-truck, this issue is extremely dangerous, as it increases the risk of losing control or tipping over, especially on winding roads or in adverse conditions.

4.    Uneven Tire Wear

Uneven tire wear is a common symptom of alignment issues but can also point to an unbalanced driveshaft. When the driveshaft isn’t properly balanced, it can skew the wheels, causing them to rotate unevenly. The inconsistent contact with the road can be less than ideal for your tires, causing certain areas of the tire to wear faster than others.

This problem, while bad enough as is, can spiral into other issues, such as a reduced tire lifespan, compromised safety, and poorer fuel efficiency. So, if your tires aren’t wearing evenly and your alignment is good, it might be time to look at the driveshaft.

5.    Transmission and Differential Issues

The driveshaft, transmission, and differential go hand-in-hand. The driveshaft is directly connected to the transmission and differential. So, if the driveshaft is unbalanced, you may experience problems with the other two components.

For example, you might notice difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, or even unusual noises coming from the transmission or differential. While the driveshaft might not always be the culprit, the imbalance here can cause these issues.

When the driveshaft isn’t balanced, it adds strain, which can cause premature wear on gears, bearings, and seals. If left unchecked, it could lead to costly repairs or even catastrophic failure over time.

6.    U-Joint Failure

The universal joints (U-joints) in the driveshaft offer flexibility in the drivetrain as the vehicle moves. Unfortunately, when the driveshaft is unbalanced, it can put extra stress on those joints. This can lead to premature wear and eventual failure, creating more issues.

Generally, when the U-joint is failing, you’ll hear a clicking or clunking noise, especially when driving or shifting from park to drive. In severe cases, a failed U-joint can cause the driveshaft to detach from the vehicle. This can result in a total loss of power and serious damage to the undercarriage, so it’s important to take care of it promptly.

7.    Increased Fuel Consumption

When the driveshaft isn’t balanced, it can’t do its job correctly. It can’t rotate smoothly, creating additional drag on the drivetrain. This requires more energy to maintain speed and power, which, in turn, drives up fuel consumption.

In a semi-truck, where fuel efficiency is already a significant consideration, having to pour more money into your gas tank isn’t ideal. It can drive up operating costs, detracting from your bottom line. So, if you notice a sudden drop in fuel efficiency without any other apparent cause, it wouldn’t hurt to take a closer look at the driveshaft for balance issues.

Restore Your Truck to Working Condition With Point Spring Driveshaft & Co.

If you suspect your truck’s driveshaft is unbalanced, our experienced team at Point Spring Driveshaft & Co. can help. We offer complete driveline services, including the driveshaft, and can help restore your truck to its former working glory. Downtime is expensive, so we’re here to help you get back on the road as soon as possible. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.