GM 15814474
Drive Shaft

The first step to replace the front propeller shaft involves vehicle lifter and removal of the Transfer Case shield when present. A flat-bladed tool should be used to lift the clamp end extended from the Transfer Case. Using tools between the yoke and Universal Joint as well as striking the yoke ears will result in fractured injection joints so care must be taken to avoid those methods. Before you disconnect the propeller shaft from the front axle pinion yoke you need to first mark the desired front propeller shaft and drive axle flange alignment then take off the bolts and yoke retainers attached to the front axle pinion yoke. Securing the bearing caps with tape allows you to proceed with removing the boot from the Transfer Case output shaft groove before pulling out the propeller shaft from the Transfer Case output shaft. The procedure requires boot clamp removal together with the boot itself when needed. Examine the Transfer Case output shaft splines to verify enough lubricating material exists. Use red grease gm p/n 12345879 or canadian p/n 10953511 if such material is deficient. Put the propeller shaft boot along with its boot clamp in position prior to inserting the propeller shaft splines into the Transfer Case output shaft while maintaining alignment of the relationship marks. The front axle pinion yoke should receive the propeller shaft and then you should install the Universal Joint retainers and bolts before tightening the bolts to 25 n.m (18 lb ft). You must first snap the boot onto the Transfer Case output shaft before using clamp pliers (J 43218) to crimp both clamps and reinstall the Transfer Case shield and check its fluid level. Afterward, lower the vehicle.

Mark the relationship of the propeller shaft to the front axle pinion yoke.