Special Tools

J 38792-A Electronic Vibration Analyzer (EVA) 2

Notice: Do not fill the propeller shaft with foam, oil, or any other substance in order to correct a vibration. Filling the propeller shaft is only effective in reducing an unrelated condition called Torsional Rattle. Filling the propeller shaft should only be done in strict adherence to the procedure outlined in corporate bulletins that address Torsional Rattle. Failure to follow the correct procedure will induce a vibration and/or affect the structural integrity of the propeller shaft. The propeller shaft will then have to be replaced.

1. Support the vehicle with a hoist or jack stands. Support the drive axle, set the vehicle at trim height. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Turn ON the ignition .
3. Set the transmission into NEUTRAL.
4. Remove the rear tire and wheel assembly. See Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
5. Remove the brake rotor from the drive axle. Refer to Front Brake Rotor Replacement and/or Rear Brake Rotor Replacement.
6. Drive Shaft Inspection, all drive shafts should be free of undercoating before continuing.

Notice: Do not depress the brake pedal with the brake rotors and/or the brake drums removed, or with the brake calipers repositioned away from the brake rotors, or damage to the brake system may result.

7. Start the engine.
8. Place the transmission in the highest (forward gear).
9. Have an assistant increase and decrease the vehicle through the speed range at which the vibration was first noted during the Vibration Analysis-Road Testing procedure.
10. Record whether the vibration was present, and at what speed.
11. If the vibration is present and determine which end of the driveshaft is vibrating the most. Hold the vibration sensor of the J 38792-A Electronic Vibration Analyzer (EVA) 2, up to the pinion nose and the transmission tail shaft housing.
12. If the vehicle is equipped with a multiple-piece drive shaft, hold the vibration sensor of the J 38792-A to inspect for vibration.
13. If the transmission output shaft housing is vibrating, place the vibration sensor of the J 38792-A onto the crossmember under the transmission support. If there is no vibration on the crossmember, then the transmission support is working properly.
14. Record which end of the drive shaft is vibrating the most and how severe the vibration is. The inspection will be a reference for judging future progress.