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 in General Information.
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. Place the vibration sensor of the J 38792-A Electronic Vibration Analyzer (EVA) 2, to the pinion nose.

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 vehicle.
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 Vibration Analysis - Road Testing procedure.
10. If a vibration is present, note the J 38792-A reading during acceleration or deceleration.
11. Notice as to whether or not the pinion nose vibrates under load during acceleration or deceleration.
12. If the vibration is not duplicated, reinstall the brake rotor and the wheel/tire assembly to put addition load on the system. Have an assistant maintain the vehicle at vibration concern speed, and meanwhile recheck the component.
13. If the vibration is still not reproduced, lightly apply the brake to further load the system while maintaining the vibration concern speed.
14. If the pinion nose vibrates under acceleration or deceleration, and other driveline components have been eliminated as a cause, the vibration may be an internal axle problem.