Propeller Shaft Vibration

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 RAM Pickup and 2011 RAM Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Out-of-round tires or wheels that are out of balance, will cause a low frequency vibration.

Driveline vibration can also be caused by loose or damaged engine mounts.

Propeller shaft vibration increases with vehicle speed. A vibration that occurs at a specific speed range, is not usually caused by an out of balance propeller shaft. Defective universal joints or an incorrect propeller shaft angle are usually the cause of such a vibration.

DRIVELINE VIBRATION

CONDITION	POSSIBLE CAUSE	CORRECTION
Propeller Shaft Noise	1) Undercoating or other foreign material on shaft.	1) Clean exterior of shaft and wash with solvent.
	2) Loose companion flange bolts.	2) Install new bolts and tighten to proper torque.
	3) Loose or bent U-joint yoke or excessive runout.	3) Install new yoke.
	4) Incorrect driveline angularity.	4) Measure and correct driveline angles.
	5) Rear spring center bolt not in seat.	5) Loosen spring U-bolts and seat center bolt.
	6) Worn U-joint bearings.	6) Install new U-joint.
	7) Propeller shaft damaged or out of balance.	7) Install new propeller shaft.
	8) Broken rear spring.	8) Install new rear spring.
	9) Excessive runout or unbalanced condition.	9) Re-index propeller shaft, test, and evaluate.
	10) Excessive drive pinion gear shaft runout.	10) Re-index propeller shaft and evaluate.
	11) Excessive axle yoke deflection.	11) Inspect and replace yoke if necessary.
	12) Excessive transfer case runout.	12) Inspect and repair as necessary.
Universal Joint Noise	1) Loose companion flange bolts.	1) Install new bolts and tighten to proper torque.
Universal Joint Noise	2) Lack of lubrication.	2) Replace U-joints as necessary.