GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 43218 Clamp Pliers - Narrow Jaw

Removal Procedure

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 wheel drive shafts, 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 obtained prior to disassembly must be followed.

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the transfer case shield, if equipped. Refer to:
  3. •  Shield Replacement in Transfer Case - NVG 246-NP8 (Two Speed Automatic)
    •  Shield Replacement in Transfer Case - NVG 261-NP2 (Two Speed Manual)
  4. Reference mark the relationship of the propeller shaft to the front axle pinon yoke.

  5. Object Number: 914933  Size: SH
  6. Remove the bolts (6) and the yoke retainers (7) from the front axle pinion yoke (1).
  7. Notice: When removing the propeller shaft, do not attempt to remove the shaft by pounding on the yoke ears or using a tool between the yoke and the universal joint. If the propeller shaft is removed by using such means, the injection joints may fracture and lead to premature failure of the joint.

    Important: Avoid dropping the bearing cap assemblies of the yoke end.

  8. Disconnect the propeller shaft (2) from the front axle pinion yoke (1).
  9. Wrap the bearing caps with tape in order to prevent the loss of bearing rollers.


    Object Number: 914937  Size: SH
  10. Remove the propeller shaft from the transfer case output shaft by sliding the propeller shaft forward.

Installation Procedure

  1. Inspect the splines of the transfer case output shaft for a sufficient coating of grease. If the output shaft does not have a sufficient coating of grease, lubricate the shaft with grease, GM P/N 12345879 or equivalent.

  2. Object Number: 914937  Size: SH
  3. Install the propeller shaft splines into the transfer case output shaft.

  4. Object Number: 914933  Size: SH
  5. Install the propeller shaft (5) to the front axle pinion yoke (1).
  6. Align the reference marks made during removal.

    Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  7. Install the yoke retainers (7) and the bolts (6).
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the yoke retainer bolts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).

  9. Install the boot onto the transfer case output shaft until the boot snaps into the groove on the output shaft.

  10. Object Number: 319738  Size: SH
  11. If the clamp was removed during the repair, use the J 43218 to crimp the clamp until the dimensions shown are obtained.
  12. Install the transfer case shield, if equipped. Refer to:
  13. •  Shield Replacement in Transfer Case - NVG 246-NP8 (Two Speed Automatic)
    •  Shield Replacement in Transfer Case - NVG 261-NP2 (Two Speed Manual)
  14. Lower the vehicle.