The splines of the drive shaft yoke should be lubricated to prevent ________.

Lubricating the splines of the drive shaft yoke is essential for preventing spline bind. Spline bind occurs when the splines, which are designed to allow for some degree of movement and flexibility during operation, become stiff or stuck due to inadequate lubrication. When this happens, the drive shaft may not slide freely when needed, particularly during suspension movement or when the vehicle accelerates and decelerates. This can lead to a reduction in performance and may cause excessive stress on the components, ultimately leading to failure. Proper lubrication ensures that the splines can function as intended, allowing for smooth engagement and disengagement, thus maintaining the efficiency and longevity of the drive system.