GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 1247  Size: SH

    Important: Observe the position of all of the driveline components. Accurately mark the relationship of the following components before removal:

       • The propeller shafts
       • The drive axles
       • The pinion flanges
       • The output shafts
    Reassemble all of the components in the exact relationship to each other before removal. Follow the specifications, the torque values, and any measurements that were obtained prior to disassembly.

  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Accurately reference mark the propeller shaft.
  3. Remove the bolts from the rear of the pinion flange.
  4. Remove the retainers.
  5. 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.

  6. Remove the yoke and cross assembly.
  7. Tape the bearing cups in order to prevent the loss of bearing rollers.
  8. Remove the propeller shaft by using the following procedure:
  9. 7.1. Slide the propeller shaft forward.
    7.2. Lower the propeller shaft.
    7.3. Remove the shaft under the rear axle.

    Do not allow the universal joint to incline greatly; the joint may fracture.

  10. Clean all the parts using a suitable solvent.
  11. Inspect the outer diameter of the nylon injected yoke for burrs. Burring damages the transmission seal.
  12. Inspect for proper installation and uniform seating of the bearing cups.
  13. Inspect the slip yoke splines for wear.
  14. Inspect for twisted slip yoke splines or possibly the wrong universal joint. Replace the parts as necessary.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1247  Size: SH
  1. Install the propeller shaft into the transmission.
  2. Important: Install a new universal joint whenever a slip joint or companion flange is serviced.

  3. Lubricate the slip joint.
  4. Install the yoke and cross assembly onto the pinion flange.
  5. Align the reference marks on the pinion flange and the propeller shaft rear yoke. Seat the yoke properly.
  6. Install the retainers.
  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 bolts into the pinion flange.
  9. Tighten

        • Tighten the rear pinion flange bolts to 20 N·m (15 lb ft) for 2.2L engines.
        • Tighten the bolts to 45 N·m (33 lb ft) for 4.3L engines.