Note: Before disassembly, observe and accurately mark all of the driveline components relative to the propeller shaft and to the axles. These items include the following components:

1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Remove the transfer case shield. Refer to Transfer Case Shield Replacement.
3. Mark the relationship of the propeller shaft and of the front axle pinion yoke.



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

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

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

Wrap the bearing caps with tape in order to prevent the loss of bearing rollers.




6. Disconnect the boot from the groove on the transfer case output shaft.
7. Remove the propeller shaft from the transfer case output shaft by sliding the propeller shaft forward.

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 lubricant GM P/N 12345879 (Canadian P/N 10953511) or with an equivalent lubricant meeting GM specification 9985830.



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



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

Align the reference marks that were made during removal.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

4. Install the yoke retainers (7) and the bolts (6).

Tighten
Tighten the yoke retainer bolts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).

5. Install the boot onto the transfer case output shaft until the boot snaps into the groove on the output shaft.
6. Install the transfer case shield. Refer to Transfer Case Shield Replacement.
7. Lower the vehicle.