GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 43218 Clamp Plier


    Object Number: 361391  Size: SH
  1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Important: Observe and accurately reference mark all driveline components relative to the propeller shaft and axles before disassembly. These components include the propeller shafts, 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.

  3. Reference mark the propeller shaft (3) to the pinion flange connection (4).

  4. Object Number: 361394  Size: SH
  5. Reference mark the slip yoke (2) to the transmission (1) or the transfer case.

  6. Object Number: 361391  Size: SH
  7. Remove the bolts (1) and the yoke retainers (2) from the rear axle pinion flange (4).

  8. Object Number: 361410  Size: SH
  9. For 2 piece Dana propeller shafts, remove the clamps (2) securing the boot (3) to the slip yoke  (1) and the stub shaft (4), using a screwdriver.

  10. Object Number: 361391  Size: SH
  11. Slide the propeller shaft (3) forward in order to remove the propeller shaft from the rear axle pinion flange (4).

  12. Object Number: 361394  Size: SH
  13. Slide the propeller shaft (2) rearward in order to remove the propeller shaft (2) from the transmission or the transfer case.
  14. Remove the propeller shaft from the vehicle.
  15. Remove the boot from the propeller shaft.

  16. Object Number: 361421  Size: SH
  17. Remove the center bearing support nuts (1).
  18. Remove the center bearing support (2).

  19. Object Number: 361394  Size: SH
  20. Remove the propeller shaft (2) from the transmission (1) or the transfer case with a rearward movement.
  21. Clean all parts with an approved solvent.
  22. Inspect the outer diameter of the slip yoke for burrs. Burring damages the transmission seal.
  23. Inspect for twisted slip yoke splines or possibly the wrong universal joint.
  24. Inspect the universal joint bearings for wear. Replace as necessary.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 361394  Size: SH
  1. Lubricate the slip joint splines on the propeller shaft. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
  2. Install the propeller shaft (2) into the transmission (1) or the transfer case.

  3. Object Number: 361421  Size: SH
  4. Install the center bearing support (2).
  5. 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.

  6. Install the center bearing support nuts.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 40 N·m (30 lb ft).


    Object Number: 361410  Size: SH
  8. For 2 piece Dana propeller shafts, install the boot on the stub shaft before installation.

  9. Object Number: 361391  Size: SH
  10. Lubricate the stub shaft. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
  11. Install the stub shaft onto the slip yoke.
  12. Mate the missing tooth in the yoke with the bridged tooth on the splined shaft.
  13. Install the propeller shaft (3) onto the rear axle pinion flange (4).
  14. Align the reference marks made at removal.
  15. Install the yoke retainers (2) and the bolts (1).
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the yoke retainer bolts to 25 N·m (19 lb ft).


    Object Number: 361410  Size: SH
  17. Install the clamps onto the stub shaft (4) and the slip yoke (1) using J 43218 .
  18. Lower the vehicle.