Special Tools

J-43218 Clamp Pliers - Narrow Jaw

1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Remove the transfer case shield, if equipped.

•	For vehicles equipped with the BW 4485-NR3 transfer case, refer to Transfer Case Shield Replacement.

•	For vehicles equipped with the MP 3023/3024-NQH transfer case, refer to Transfer Case Shield Replacement.




3. Remove the clamp (4) at the transfer case by prying up the exposed end of the clamp with a flat-bladed tool.




Caution: 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.

Note: Mark the relationship of the front propeller shaft to the drive axle flange.

4. Remove the bolts (6) and the yoke retainers (7) from the front axle pinion yoke (1).

Note: Do not drop the bearing cap assemblies of the yoke end.

5. Disconnect the propeller shaft (2) from the front axle pinion yoke (1).



6. Use tape to secure the bearing caps.



7. Remove the boot from the groove on the transfer case output shaft.
8. Remove the propeller shaft from the transfer case output shaft.



9. Remove the clamp (1) from the propeller shaft boot (2), if needed.
10. Remove the propeller shaft boot (2) from the propeller shaft, if needed.

1. Inspect the splines of the transfer case output shaft for a sufficient coating of lubricant. If the output shaft does not have a sufficient coating of lubricant, lubricate the shaft with grease, GM P/N 12345879 (Canadian P/N 10953511), or equivalent lubricant meeting GM Specification 9985830.



2. Install the propeller shaft boot (2).
3. Install the propeller shaft boot clamp (1).



4. Install the propeller shaft splines into the transfer case output shaft.




Note: Align the relationship marks on the front propeller shaft and the drive axle flange.

5. Install the propeller shaft (5) to the front axle pinion yoke (1).

Align the reference marks made during removal.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

6. Install the universal joint retainers (7) and the bolts (6) and tighten to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).
7. Install the boot onto the transfer case output shaft until the boot snaps into the groove on the output shaft.
8. Using the J-43218 Clamp Pliers - Narrow Jaw , crimp both clamps.
9. Install the transfer case shield.

•	For vehicles equipped with the BW 4485-NR3 transfer case, refer to Transfer Case Shield Replacement.

•	For vehicles equipped with the for the MP 3023/3024-NQH transfer case, refer to Transfer Case Shield Replacement.

10. Check the fluid level of the transfer case.
11. Lower the vehicle.