XJ 900 F 58L Axle Pinch Bolts Question

Hey guys,
the axle pinch bolts on my XJ, which I've been driving for about 500 km, were loose. One at the front had even come completely loose, the other one wasn't right, and the rear one wasn't tightened properly either. How bad is this? What else should I check to be sure everythings fine? Besides, of course, tighten them up, and look whether the previous owner had more screws loose..

Could the cardan drive get damanged? The fork or the brakes, maybe? The bolts are there to prevent the axles from moving left or right, right?
As for the handling, it was actually okay most of the time, although on bad roads the back felt weird. I notice now that they're properly tightened that it steers better, but since everyone had called me crazy for driving an XJ (too heavy, bad suspension, etc.), I was prepared for anything lol.

So far I love everything on this bike. Looks, appearance, power, and the engine sounds great!
Thanks everyone,
Chris

 

The lashing on the driveshaft gears should not get damaged as the pinch bolts are for side to side grip. As they are critical bolts affecting safety you should renew them. Having said that I don't think they are torque to yield bolts. XJ's are cool bikes.