GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist.
  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, drive axles, pinion flanges, 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 to pinion flange connection.
  4. Reference mark the slip yoke to the transmission for proper reassembly.
  5. When servicing propeller shafts with the pop on seal, do not remove the seal from the sleeve. Removal of the seal causes damage to the seal lip where it contacts the sleeve yoke. If removal of the seal is necessary, replace the seal with a new part.

  6. Object Number: 1247  Size: SH
  7. Remove the retainer bolts.
  8. Remove the retainers.

  9. Object Number: 404282  Size: SH

    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.

  10. Remove the yoke and cross assembly, wrapping the bearing cups with tape in order to prevent the loss of bearing rollers.

  11. Object Number: 157065  Size: SH
  12. For two-piece Dana propeller shafts, pull the slip yoke (4) out of the stub shaft (1).
  13. For two-piece American Axle and Manufacturing propeller shafts, unscrew the threaded cap on the center slip yoke.
  14. Remove the propeller shaft.
  15. 10.1. Slide the propeller shaft forward.
    10.2. Lower the propeller shaft and remove the propeller shaft.
    10.3. Do not allow the universal joint to incline greatly. The joint may fracture.
  16. Remove the center bearing support bolts.
  17. Remove the center support bearing nuts and washers.
  18. Remove the center bearing support (3).
  19. Remove the front propeller shaft.
  20. 14.1. Support the propeller shaft.
    14.2. Do not allow the universal joint to bend deeply as the universal joint could fracture.

    Object Number: 404287  Size: SH
    14.3. Remove the propeller shaft with a rearward movement.
  21. Clean all parts with an approved solvent.
  22. Inspect the outer diameter of the transmission yoke for burrs. Burring damages the transmission seal.
  23. Inspect the slip yoke splines for wear.
  24. Inspect for twisted slip yoke splines or possibly the wrong universal joint.
  25. Inspect the universal joint bearings for wear. Replace as necessary.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 404287  Size: SH
  1. Install the propeller shaft into the transmission.
  2. Ensure that the slip joint splines are lubricated.
  3. Bottom the propeller shaft yoke in the transmission.

  4. Object Number: 1236  Size: SH
  5. Install the center bearing support.
  6. Align the center bearing support 90 degrees to the propeller shaft center lines.
  7. 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.

  8. Install the center bearing support bolts.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the center bearing support bolts to 35 N·m (26 lb ft).


    Object Number: 157065  Size: SH
  10. Install the slip yoke (4) by aligning the missing tooth (5) with the bridged tooth (6) on the splined shaft (1).
  11. Support the propeller shaft.
  12. Ensure the slip yoke ears are horizontal.
  13. Align the reference marks and install the propeller shaft to the rear differential yoke.
  14. Install the retainers.
  15. Install the bolts.
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).

  17. Inspect for proper joint fit.
  18. Lubricate the center slip joint on two-piece shaft.