Which component connects the driveshaft to the rear differential in a typical front-engine, rear-wheel-drive setup?

• A. Slip yoke
• B. Universal joint
• C. Drive shaft flange
• D. Differential carrier

Answer: (B)

In this setup, torque is sent from the driveshaft to the rear differential through a flexible joint that can accommodate changes in angle as the suspension moves. The universal joint serves as that connector, allowing the driveshaft to rotate while staying aligned with the differential’s pinion yoke. This flexibility is essential because the driveshaft and differential don’t stay perfectly in line at all times. The slip yoke is involved at the transmission end, not the connection to the differential, and the differential carrier is an internal part of the differential itself. Therefore, the universal joint is the component that connects the driveshaft to the rear differential.