Driveshaft and U-Joints

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Raise the vehicle and support safely.
2. The rear driveshaft is a 3-piece unit, with a front, center and rear propeller shaft. Remove the nuts and insulators from the center support bearing. Work carefully. There will be a number of spacers which will differ from vehicle to vehicle. Check the number of spacers and write down their locations for reference during reassembly.
3. Matchmark the rear differential companion flange and the rear driveshaft flange yoke. Remove the companion shaft bolts and remove the driveshaft, keeping it as straight as possible so as to ensure that the boot is not damaged or pinched. Use care to keep from damaging the oil seal in the output housing of the transfer case.

   NOTE: Damage to the boot can be avoided and work will be easier if a piece of cloth or similar material is inserted in the boot.

4. Do not lower the rear of the vehicle or oil will flow from the transfer case. Cover the opening to keep dirt out.

   Fig. 1: Exploded view of the propeller shaft mounting

   Fig. 2: Apply mating marks on the flange yoke and differential companion flange

   To install:

5. Position the driveshaft in the vehicle, making sure to align the matchmarks at the rear yoke.
6. Install the bolts at the rear differential flange and tighten to 22–25 ft. lbs. (30–35 Nm).
7. Install the center support bearing with all spacers in place. Tighten the retaining nuts to 22–25 ft. lbs. (30–35 Nm).
8. Check the fluid levels in the transfer case and rear differential case.