A driveshaft is in charge of transferring engine power from the transmission to the differential and onto the drive wheels. A driveshaft can be a couple of pieces with a center support bearing in the middle. There will be universal joints at either end of the driveshaft which act as flex joints that permit the differential to go upward when the car contacts a bump. A front side driveshaft yoke is utilized to hook up to the transmission while a backside driveshaft flange can be used to hook up to the differential. On old models the rear U joint bolts right to the differential without by using a rear flange. On entrance wheel drive vehicles there are two drive shafts which are called CV axles.
Driveshaft themselves have very little problems with the exception to become bent if they come in contact with an obstruction. On the other hand the U joints could cause problems which are a part of the driveshaft such as chirping and clucking when the car is moving or put into gear.
Something you should know that may well not be thought of is whenever a driveshaft is taken off the car will no longer be in park. The car will roll since the link between the drive wheels and tranny is taken out. You will need to raise the car or truck up using a floor jack and jackstays. Wear protective eyewear and gloves before starting.
Indicate the driveshaft orientation before you begin. This will help go back the driveshaft to its classic location on the differential that may help avoid driveline vibrations once the driveshaft is reinstalled.
Using a plastic hammer softly shock the driveshaft loose from the differential flange by striking the rear yoke (U joint install). At this time the back 50 % of the shaft will always be free so keep hold of it. On some autos there will be a center support which should be undone by the removal of the two centre support mounting bolts. When removing an older vehicle drive shaft work with electric tape to wrap around the u joint cups and so they don’t really fall off and release the cup needle bearings.

On front wheel travel cars the driveshaft is not used. The transmitting and differential is blended into one device 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 pc balanced and Front Drive Shaft examined to closer tolerances than OEM requirements.
The drive shaft may be the part on the lower right side of the picture. The additional end of it might be connected to the transmission.