Removal Procedure
- Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
- Reference mark the relationship of the propeller shaft to the front axle pinion yoke.
- Remove the yoke retainer bolts and yoke retainers from the front axle pinion yoke.
- Disconnect the propeller shaft from the front axle pinon yoke.
- Remove the propeller shaft from the transfer case.
Important: Observe the position of all the driveline components. Accurately mark the relationship of the components before removal. These components include the propeller shafts, the drive axles, the pinion flanges, and the output shafts. Reassemble all components in the exact relationship to each other as they were before removal. Follow the specifications, the torque values, and any measurements obtained prior to disassembly.
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.
Wrap the bearing caps with tape in order to prevent the loss of bearing rollers.
Installation Procedure
- 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 12377985 or equivalent).
- Install the propeller shaft to the transfer case.
- Install the propeller shaft to the front axle pinion yoke.
- Install the yoke retainers and the bolts.
- Lower the vehicle.
Important: Ensure that the propeller shaft assembly is fully engaged into the slip yoke. The retaining ring will produce a snapping noise when the shaft is properly engaged.
Align the reference marks made during removal.
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.
Tighten
Tighten the front propeller shaft yoke clamp bolts to 20 N·m
(15 lb ft).
