GM 22845689
Drive Shaft

The first step for propeller shaft replacement includes precise component tagging of the driveline system before disassembly so all parts can return to their original positions during reassembly by following torque specifications. Begin by raising the vehicle. Note down the positioning of the propeller shaft regarding the rear axle pinion yoke and the transmission or Transfer Case. The yoke retainers must be removed then bolts need to be separated from the rear axle pinion yoke. When removing the yoke ears it is essential to avoid using tools between the yoke and Universal Joint because it can lead to injection joints fracture. The process for removing the propeller shaft begins with moving it forward to detach from the rear axle pinion yoke and continues with retraction back toward the transmission or Transfer Case before completing the removal of the shaft from the vehicle. The Slip Yoke splines need inspection for lubrication before installation, use gm p/n 12345879 (Canadian P/N 10953511) or equivalent gm specification 9985830 (RWD w/4-speed Automatic Transmission) as lubricant when required. Reinstall the propeller shaft into the transmission or Transfer Case by matching the reference marks from removal before inserting it to the rear axle pinion yoke where reference marks must be exactly aligned. Drop the vehicle and properly install the yoke retainers while using 25 nm (18 lb ft) torque on the retainers bolts.

Before removing the driveline components the technician must reference mark every piece accurately relative to both propeller shafts and axles and pinion flanges and output shafts to preserve the current relationship between components according to specified torque values. Begin by raising the vehicle. The propeller shaft requires two reference marks before removal: behind the transmission or Transfer Case and at the rear axle pinion yoke. Use a tool to detach both bolts and retainer components from the rear axle pinion yoke structure. Pounding on the yoke ears and inserting tools between yoke and Universal Joint must be avoided because it will lead to broken injection joints. Begin this operation by moving the propeller shaft toward the front to separate it from the rear axle pinion yoke and then push it all the way toward the tail to detach from the transmission or Transfer Case and finally extract the propeller shaft from the vehicle. Before installing the Slip Yoke inspect the pinion yoke splines for an adequate lubricant amount. If needed, lubricate using gm p/n 12345879 (Canadian P/N 10953511) or an equivalent component that meets gm specification 9985830 (RWD w/4-speed Automatic Transmission). Insert the propeller shaft into the transmission or Transfer Case while matching the reference marks from removal before attaching the rear axle pinion yoke by matching both reference marks. Extra precaution needs to be taken about fasteners. When complete you should install the yoke retainers and bolts and fasten them to 25 nm (18 lb ft) then lower the vehicle.

Remove the transfer case shield.

Use the J-43218 - Clamp Pliers - Narrow Jaw to crimp both clamps.