OEM 2003 Cadillac CTS Drive Shaft

2003 Cadillac CTS Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to replace the Drive Shaft on 2003 Cadillac CTS?

  A: The first step to replace the propeller shaft includes lifting and supporting the vehicle at proper height. The exhaust system needs to be removed yet the propeller shaft coupler should stay connected to its shaft. The procedure continues by removing both the propeller shaft coupler-to-differential flange bolts as well as nuts without disengaging the coupler from the propeller shaft. Securely support the propeller shaft by the support bearing and disconnect all nuts which attach the support bearing to the vehicle underbody. Toward the rear end push the front propeller shaft to release the coupler from the transmission flange after which you can put the support device under the support bearing before removing the support bearing from the mounting studs. The rear propeller shaft requires forward extension to separate the coupler from the differential flange. Record the shim pack placements for correct reassembly and remove the propeller shaft from the vehicle. The propeller shaft coupler needs inspection for splitting alongside deep cracking, loose mounting bolt connection and damaged or absent bushing elements; any issues require propeller shaft replacement. The process begins with centering pin cleaning from differential flange and transmission flange along with cleaning of front and rear propeller shaft centering bushings using a clean shop towel. The centering bushings require a limited application of GM P/N 1051344 lubricant (Canadian P/N 993037) or equivalent. The installation process requires inspection and potential replacement of damaged or worn propeller shaft to flange nuts and bolts. Insert the rear propeller shaft coupler onto the differential flange while pointing the propeller shaft flange bolts toward the flanges according to marker arrows on the coupler. Clean the reused propeller shaft to flange nuts and bolts and let them dry before applying threadlocker GM P/N 12345493 (Canadian P/N 10953488) at the propeller shaft to flange bolt interface without any threadlocker gaps. The threadlocker needs processing time of ten minutes before putting the installation into effect. Tighten the propeller shaft coupler-to-differential flange bolts along with nuts to 85 Nm (63 ft. lbs.). Install the propeller shaft coupler to the transmission flange while repeating the cleaning process then applying threadlocker GM P/N 12345493 (Canadian P/N 10953488). Then install the front propeller shaft coupler-to-transmission flange bolts and nuts to 85 Nm (63 ft. lbs.) torque. Fit the center support bearing to the underbody studs where it will carry the shim packs before activating the support device to secure the bearing position. The studs for center support bearing nuts must be secured at 50 Nm (37 ft. lbs.) torques before a support device is removed to reinstall the exhaust system. The vehicle needs to be lowered afterward.