GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 1247  Size: SH

    Important: The driveline components in this vehicle are factory system-balanced. System balance provides a smoother running driveline operation. Observe the position of all the driveline components. Accurately mark the relationship of the components before removal. These components include the propeller shafts, the drive axles, the pinion flanges, and the output shafts. All components must be reassembled in the exact relationship to each other as they were before removal. Follow the specifications, the torque values, and any measurements made prior to disassembly in order to maintain the factory system balance.

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Accurately reference mark the propeller shaft.
  3. Remove the bolts from the rear of the pinion flange.
  4. Remove the retainers.
  5. Important: Do not pound on the original propeller shaft yoke ears. The injection joints may fracture. Never pry or place any tool between a yoke and a universal joint.

  6. Remove the yoke and cross assembly.
  7. Tape the bearing cups in order to prevent the loss of bearing rollers.
  8. Remove the propeller shaft by using the following procedure:
  9. 7.1. Slide the propeller shaft forward.
    7.2. Lower the propeller shaft and remove under the rear axle.
    7.3. Do not allow the universal joint to incline greatly; the joint may fracture.
  10. Clean all the parts with a suitable solvent.
  11. Inspect the outer diameter of the nylon injected yoke for burrs. Burring damages the transmission seal.
  12. Inspect for proper installation and uniform seating of the bearing cups.
  13. Inspect the slip yoke splines for wear.
  14. Inspect for twisted slip yoke splines or possibly the wrong universal joint. Replace the parts as necessary.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1247  Size: SH
  1. Install the propeller shaft into the transmission.
  2. Important: Install a new universal joint whenever a slip joint or companion flange is serviced.

  3. Lubricate the slip joint.
  4. Install the yoke and cross assembly onto the pinion flange.
  5. Align the reference marks on the pinion flange and the propeller shaft rear yoke. Seat the yoke properly.
  6. Install the retainers.
  7. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  8. Install the bolts into the pinion flange.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 36 N·m (27 lb ft).

  10. Lower the vehicle.