Diagnostic Starting Point - Propeller Shaft

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Aztek and 2003 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Begin the propeller shaft system diagnosis with DIAGNOSTIC STARTING POINT -- VIBRATION DIAGNOSIS AND CORRECTION . The use of the Diagnostic Starting Point will determine if the concern is related to the propeller shaft. When instructed to exit the Vibration Diagnosis and Correction diagnostic and return to the Diagnostic Starting Point - Propeller Shaft, proceed to Propeller Shaft Diagnosis in order to isolate and identify propeller shaft related concerns. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Identifying Propeller Shaft Assembly

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Review the propeller shaft system function. Refer to PROPELLER SHAFT DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION .

Inspect for loose or missing propeller shaft-to-flange bolts (2) and (4). Tighten or replace as necessary. Refer to PROPELLER SHAFT REPLACEMENT .

The propeller shaft (3) and the constant velocity (CV) joints are not serviceable. The CV joints and seals should be inspected periodically, whenever the vehicle is serviced.

The CV joint seals should be inspected for the following:

Tears
Cracks
Contamination of the lubricating grease Carefully pinch the seal and feel for the presence of grit
Loose or missing seal clamps
Leakage of lubricating grease from the seals The CV joints should be inspected for the following conditions:
Binding or impeded motion during axial movement of the front and rear CV joints
Binding or impeded motion during lateral movement of the rear CV joint
Loose or missing crimped-on end caps
Leakage of lubricating grease from the end caps

The propeller shaft must be replaced if any of the above conditions exist. This will ensure that the propeller shaft continues to operate as intended, and does not damage the other driveline components.