GM 26020040
Axle Shaft, Rear

The first step in one-piece propeller shaft replacement requires raising the vehicle while using precise reference numbers to mark driveline parts relative to the entire assembly including all components that comprise the propeller shafts, drive axles, pinion flanges, and output shafts to avoid losing factory balance during reassembly. Proceed to disconnect the rear axle pinion yoke by removing yoke retainers along with bolts yet handle the yoke ears gently to keep from breaking the injection joints. Slide the propeller shaft forward to detach it from neither the transmission nor the pinion yoke or yoke flange and slide it back toward the transmission to separate from the transmission and remove the shaft from the vehicle. Start by inserting the transmission Slip Yoke while aligning reference marks from the previous removal step before linking the propeller shaft to the rear axle pinion yoke or yoke flange with match-ups of these reference marks. New bolts should replace the discarded ones on the yoke flange and yoke retainers along with bolts must be installed while tightening yoke retainer bolts to 20 nm (15 ft. Lbs.) or yoke flange bolts to 102 nm (75 ft. Lbs.). Finally, lower the vehicle.

Vehicle assembly starts with lifting it onto a hoist before proceeding with two-piece propeller shaft replacement. All driveline elements such as the propeller shafts with drive axles along with pinion flanges and output shafts require accurate reference marking before disassembly to maintain their original connection during reassembly. The propeller shaft needs reference marking at the two locations where it connects to the pinion angle and to the transmission or Transfer Case with the Slip Yoke. Use an appropriate tool to remove the bolts while also removing the yoke retainers mounted to the rear axle pinion flange. To detach clamps securing the boot around the Slip Yoke and stub shaft from dana propeller shafts you should use the clamp plier (J 43218) with a screwdriver. Detach the propeller shaft from the rear axle pinion flange by sliding it forward and pull it toward the back to remove it from both the transmission and the Transfer Case. Begin the procedure by first extracting the propeller shaft from the vehicle before removing the boot together with the center bearing support nuts and the center bearing support itself. A solvent approved for cleaning serves to remove contaminants before inspecting the Slip Yoke diameter for burrs or twisted splines along with worn universal joint bearings that need replacement. The installation process requires slip joint spline lubrication of the propeller shaft before installing it into both the transmission and Transfer Case and the center bearing support. Fasten the center bearing support nuts until torque reaches 40 nm (30 ft. Lbs.). The boot installation onto dana propeller shaft stub shafts must happen before assembly along with stub shaft lubrication. Secure the insert rod onto the Slip Yoke so that the absent tooth of the yoke matches the unified tooth on the splined shaft. Set the propeller shaft onto the rear axle pinion flange by keeping the planned reference marks from removal in proper alignment. Terminate the procedure by installing yoke retainers with bolts which should be torqued to 25 nm at 19 ft. Lbs. Use the clamp plier (J 43218) to clamp the stub shaft and Slip Yoke before lowering the vehicle.

The first step when replacing a one-piece propeller shaft requires precise reference marking of all driveline elements against the propeller shaft alongside axles including propeller shafts and drive axles and pinion flanges and output shafts to respect their original placement. Start with marking connections between propeller shaft and pinion flange along with Slip Yoke to transmission. Service driveshafts using the pop-on seal by keeping the seal inside its sleeve since removing it may harm the lip. In case the seal needs removal, install a brand-new unit. The removal of both bolts and retainers should be conducted while avoiding forceful contact on the yoke ears together with preventing insertion of tools between the yoke and Universal Joint to prevent fracture of the injection joints. Lower the propeller shaft forward while sliding it out but avoid extreme tilt of the Universal Joint. Complete this process by wrapping the bearing cups in tape to stop bearing rollers from falling out. During front propeller shaft service always support the shaft while preventing excessive bending of its Universal Joint. All parts need cleaning with an approved solvent followed by checking the transmission yoke outer diameter for burrs and inspecting the Slip Yoke splines for wear to determine the absence of twisted splines and incorrect universal joints. The Universal Joint bearing should be inspected for wear signs before conducting any replacement needs. Insert the propeller shaft into the transmission before using chassis grease on the splined slip joint and then align reference marks on the pinion flange with the propeller shaft rear yoke followed by installing the yoke cross assembly onto the fixed yoke before securing retainers and bolts to 20 nm (15 ft. Lbs.) torque.

The maintenance of three-piece propeller shaft begins with hoisting the vehicle and creating exact reference marks between driveline parts and propeller shaft and axles before dismantling the assembly. This process allows precise reassembly of components to maintain their original positions. Start by making marks on the pinion flange-rear propeller shaft interface and then support the shaft before unscrewing the bolts from the pinion flange followed by the retainers. It is essential to avoid hitting the original propeller shaft yoke ears with a hammer because this may cause fractures and you should attach tape to the bearing cups on the yoke to hold the rollers in place. You should keep the Universal Joint assembly straight when you slide down the rear propeller shaft without the pinion flange assembly. First support the intermediate propeller shaft then remove the bolts at the front center bearing support of the front propeller shaft yoke together with the yoke retainers followed by removing the intermediate shaft center bearing support nuts and retainers. After removing the bolts accompanied by washers you can pull out the intermediate propeller shaft center bearing support from the hanger but always maintain the integrity of the yoke ears. Shorten and support the front propeller shaft while removing its bolts and retainers from the yoke before proceeding to detach the center bearing support nuts and bolts and washers. An approved solvent should be used to clean all parts before inspecting the proper installation of Universal Joint bearing cups and the intermediate and rear propeller shaft slip yoke splines. Also inspect rubber insulators for deterioration. You should attach the front propeller shaft to its yoke and verify reference marks are properly situated before bolt and retainer installation at 20 nm (26 ft. Lbs.). Join the intermediate propeller shaft with the front propeller shaft yoke while keeping them focused in proper alignment before tightening the bolts and retainers to 35 nm (26 ft. Lbs.). The rear center bearing hanger needs installation perpendicular to front and intermediate propeller shaft center lines before a thorough inspection of installed components. Use bolts and washers before supporting the rear propeller shaft with appropriate tools to tighten the nuts to 35 nm (26 ft. Lbs.). Align reference marks during the installation of rear propeller shaft bolts and retainers which should be tightened to 37 nm (27 ft. Lbs.).

Utilize the J22761 Differential Side Bearing Installer to install the bearing with the square shoulder facing in.

Remove the center bearing support bolts, nuts, and washers, then the center bearing support, followed by the front propeller shaft.

Grip the rib on the axle shaft flange with locking pliers and twist to initiate removal.

Lubricate the slip joint, install the propeller shaft into the transmission, and attach the companion flange to the rear axle.

Tighten it to 28 Nm (21 ft. lbs.).

Lightly tap the axle cap with a soft-faced hammer to loosen the gasket.

Extend the propeller shaft to its full length, then compress it about half its stroke, and install it to the front axle by aligning the reference marks.

Collapse the shock absorber and secure it if necessary, covering the shock mounting bracket and the ball stud on the lower control arm with a shop towel.

Replace parts as necessary.

Install it into the transmission, aligning the index splines.

Install the three center bearing support bolts to the propeller shaft hanger and tighten them to 58 Nm (43 ft. lbs.).

Do not rotate the axle shaft during removal to avoid misaligning the gears, which can complicate assembly.

Remove the pinion shaft.

To avoid misaligning the gears.