GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Important: Observe and accurately reference mark all driveline components relative to the propeller shaft ad axles before disassembly. These components include the propeller shaft, the drive axles, the pinion flanges, the output shafts, etc. All components must be reassembled in the exact relationship to each other as they were when removed. In addition, published specifications and torque values, as well as any measurements made prior to disassembly must be followed.

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Reference mark the rear propeller shaft to the pinion flange/yoke and to the front propeller shaft, then reference mark the front shaft to the transmission or the transfer case.

  3. Object Number: 742578  Size: MH
  4. Remove the center bearing support bracket from the crossmember.

  5. Object Number: 725595  Size: MH
  6. Remove the bolts and/or the yoke retainers from the rear axle pinion flange/yoke as necessary.
  7. Remove the rear propeller shaft with the center bearing by sliding the propeller shaft from the spline shaft.
  8. Remove the propeller shaft from the rear of the transmission or the transfer case.
  9. Clean the mating surfaces bearing caps, bearing straps and pinion yoke of corrosion using crocus cloth or 400 grit sandpaper.
  10. Clean all parts with an approved solvent.
  11. Inspect the outer surface of the front slip yoke for burrs. Burring damages the transmission seal.
  12. Inspect the slip yoke splines for wear.
  13. Inspect for proper installation and uniform seating of the bearing cups.
  14. Inspect for twisted slip yoke splines or the wrong universal joint.

Installation Procedure

  1. Inspect the splines of the front propeller shaft stub shaft for a sufficient coating of grease. If the splines of the stub shaft does not have a sufficient coating of grease, lubricate the shaft with chassis grease (GM P/N 12377985 or equivalent).
  2. Install the front propeller shaft to the transmission or the transfer case lining up the index splines.
  3. Install the rear propeller shaft with the center bearing. Ensure the spline of both front and rear shaft mesh.

  4. Object Number: 725595  Size: MH
  5. Install the rear propeller shaft to the rear axle pinion flange/yoke.
  6. 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.

  7. Install the yoke retainers and/or the bolts as necessary.
  8. Tighten

        • Tighten the yoke retainer bolts to 20 N·m (15 lb ft) (single universal joint type).
        • Tighten the flange bolts to 45 N·m (33 lb ft) (double cardan joint type).

    Object Number: 742578  Size: MH

    Important: The center bearing must be aligned in order to prevent damage to the propeller shaft assembly. When bolting the center bearing in place, be sure to keep the center perpendicular (89-91 degrees) to the propeller shaft.

  9. Install the bolts of the center bearing to the crossmember.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the center bearing support bolts and nuts to 70 N·m (50 lb ft).

  11. Lower the vehicle.