Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings and Joints: Testing and Inspection

Diagnostic Starting Point - Propeller Shaft

Begin the propeller shaft system diagnosis with Diagnostic Starting Point - Vibration Diagnosis and Correction. The use of the Diagnostic Starting Point will determine if the concern is related to the propeller shaft. When instructed to exit the Vibration Diagnosis and Correction diagnostic and return to the Diagnostic Starting Point - Propeller Shaft, proceed to Propeller Shaft Diagnosis in order to isolate and identify propeller shaft related concerns.

Propeller Shaft Diagnosis





Review the propeller shaft system function.

Inspect for loose or missing propeller shaft-to-flange bolts (2) and (4). Tighten or replace as necessary.

The propeller shaft (3) and the constant velocity (CV) joints are not serviceable. The CV joints and seals should be inspected periodically, whenever the vehicle is serviced. The CV joint seals should be inspected for these conditions:
^ Tears
^ Cracks
^ Contamination of the lubricating grease
Carefully pinch the seal and feel for the presence of grit
^ Loose or missing seal clamps
^ Leakage of lubricating grease from the seals

The CV joints should be inspected for these conditions:
^ Binding or impeded motion during axial movement of the front and rear CV joints
^ Binding or impeded motion during lateral movement of the rear CV joint
^ Loose or missing crimped-on end caps
^ Leakage of lubricating grease from the end caps

The propeller shaft must be replaced if any of the above conditions exist. This will ensure that the propeller shaft continues to operate as intended, and does not damage the other driveline components.