Driveshaft - Launch Shudder On Acceleration
File In Section: 04 - Driveline AxleBulletin No.: 01-04-17-001A
Date: June, 2001
TECHNICAL
Subject:
Launch Shudder On Acceleration
(Install New One-Piece Propeller Shaft)
Models:
1999-2001 Chevrolet and GMC K2500/3500 Extended and Crew Cab Long Box Pickup Models With Automatic Transmission
This bulletin is being revised to remove an illustration. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 01-04-17-001 (Section 04 - Driveline/Axle).
Condition
Some customers may comment on a vibration during acceleration from 0-40 km/h (0-25 mph). This may also be referred to as launch shudder. This condition may be more noticeable when the vehicle is carrying cargo or is used for towing.
Correction
A new propeller shaft is available for service to correct this condition. This new propeller shaft is a one-piece design and will replace the current two-piece design. Install a new one-piece propeller shaft on affected vehicles. Refer to the service procedure and the parts information listed below. Match the affected vehicle with the appropriate propeller shaft. Refer to the usage information below. This fix does not apply to the Chassis/Crew Cab Models (K35943).
1. Place the transmission in the Neutral position.
2. Raise the vehicle. Refer to the Lifting and Jacking procedure in the General Information subsection of the Service Manual.
3. Remove the bolts and the yoke retainers from the rear axle pinion yoke.
Important:
Do not pound on the propeller shaft yoke ears. Do not pry or place any tool between a yoke and a universal joint.
4. Slide the rear propeller shaft forward in order to remove the propeller shaft from the rear axle pinion yoke.
5. Remove the center bearing to the center bearing support nuts.
6. Remove the center bearing from the center bearing support.
7. Remove the front propeller shaft by sliding the front propeller shaft rearward from the transfer case.
8. Remove and discard any prior shims that may have been installed with the previous propeller shaft.
Important:
The center bearing support bracket (1) must be removed in order to provide enough clearance for installation of the one-piece propeller shaft. Avoid damaging the crossmember during removal of the center bracket. For proper clearance, no more than 13 mm (1/2 in) of the bracket may remain on the crossmember after removal.
9. Remove the center bearing support bracket from the kick-up crossmember using a cut-off wheel.
10. After removal of the center bearing support bracket, grind the rough metal edges smooth that remain on the crossmember.
11. Coat the exposed metal surfaces with frame coating using the information found in the applicable Service Manual and GM Refinish Material Booklet # 490 1M-D-2001 (English) or # 490 1M-D-F2001 (French).
12. Install the new propeller shaft by sliding the front of the propeller shaft into the transfer case.
13. Install the rear propeller shaft onto the rear axle pinion yoke.
14. Install the yoke retainers and the bolts.
Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 25 Nm (19 lb ft).
15. Lower the vehicle.
Parts Information
Parts are currently available from GMSPO.
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use table as shown.
DISCLAIMER