Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings and Joints: Service and Repair

Driveshaft





Material

Removal and Installation
1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to Maintenance/Service and Repair.





2. Index-mark the rear axle pinion flange and the driveshaft centering socket yoke.





3. Remove the four bolts.

4. CAUTION: The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. Never hammer on the driveshaft or any of its components to disconnect the yoke from the flange. Pry only in the area shown, with a suitable tool, to disconnect the yoke from the flange.





Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the driveshaft centering socket yoke from the rear axle pinion flange.

5. Lower the rear end of the driveshaft to clear the rear axle housing. Pull the driveshaft rearward until the driveshaft slip yoke clears the transmission extension housing.
^ Index-mark the driveshaft slip-yoke and the transmission output shaft.
^ Plug the extension housing to prevent fluid loss.

6. CAUTION: Install the driveshaft with new bolts. If new bolts are not available, apply thread lock and sealer to the threads of the original bolts.

CAUTION: The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. To make sure that the yoke seats squarely on the flange, tighten the bolts evenly in a cross pattern as shown.

NOTE: Inspect the extension housing seal for damage. Install a new seal if necessary.

NOTE: Lubricate the slip-yoke spline with long-life grease.

NOTE: If installing a new driveshaft, align the factory-made yellow paint mark at the rear of the driveshaft tube with the factory-made yellow paint mark on the rear axle pinion flange. If the paint marks are not visible, refer to driveshaft indexing.

NOTE: Inspect the mating surfaces on the rear axle companion flange and the driveshaft centering socket yoke for foreign material and for damage from nicks or burrs that could prevent the flanges from fitting tightly together. Repair damaged areas or install new components as necessary to make sure a tight fit is obtained.





To install, reverse the removal procedure.