GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Notice: Do not strike or drop the propeller shaft, or allow the universal joints to bend to extreme angles, as internal joint damage might occur.

  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

  2. Object Number: 180335  Size: SH
  3. Mark the relationship of the propeller shaft (2) to the pinion gear yoke (1).

  4. Object Number: 180340  Size: SH
  5. Remove the propeller shaft bolts/screws (2).
  6. Remove the propeller shaft retainers (1).
  7. Important: Support the propeller shaft during removal.


    Object Number: 180341  Size: SH
  8. Use the following steps in order to remove the propeller shaft:
  9. 5.1. Withdraw the slip yoke (3) from the transmission.
    5.2. Move the propeller shaft (1) rearward and pass the propeller shaft under the housing (2).

    If the bearing caps are loose, tape the bearing caps together in order to prevent dropping and losing the needle roller bearings.

  10. Inspect the transmission output shaft splines for burrs.

  11. Object Number: 180343  Size: SH
  12. Inspect the outer diameter of the slip yoke (1) for burrs.
  13. Inspect the outer splines of the slip yoke (1) for the following conditions:
  14. • Damage
    • Twisting
    • Wear
  15. Inspect the relationship of the outer splines of the slip yoke (1) to the transmission output shaft splines. The outer splines of the slip yoke should meet the following requirements:
  16. • The outer splines should agree in number with the transmission output shaft splines.
    • The outer splines should fit with the transmission output shaft splines.

    Object Number: 180344  Size: SH
  17. Inspect the pinion gear yoke (1) at the universal joint cap connecting surface for the following conditions:
  18. • Burrs
    • Foreign material

Installation Procedure

Notice: The propeller shaft must be supported carefully during handling to avoid jamming or bending of parts.

    Important: Do not place any tool between the propeller shaft slip yoke and the splines. Placing any tool between the propeller shaft slip yoke and the splines may cause damage to the transmission oil seal.

  1. Lubricate the slip yoke with chassis lubricant.
  2. Install the slip yoke onto the transmission output shaft.
  3. Important: Be sure to align the mark on the pinion gear yoke with the mark on the propeller shaft.


    Object Number: 180335  Size: SH
  4. Install the rear of the propeller shaft (2) to the pinion gear yoke (1).
  5. Install the rear universal joint to the pinion gear yoke.
  6. Ensure that the bearing caps are properly seated.


    Object Number: 180340  Size: SH
  7. Install the propeller shaft retainers (1).
  8. 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.

  9. Install the propeller shaft bolts/screws (2).
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the propeller shaft bolts/screws evenly to 22 N·m (16 lb ft).

  11. Lower the vehicle.