One Piece Propeller Shaft

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.

Fig 1: Identifying Output Angle (A)

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

This procedure applies to front and rear propeller shafts.

NOTE:

To obtain output angle (A) on the front propeller shaft equipped with a C/V joint, place inclinometer on machined surface of the C/V joint.

Raise vehicle and support the axles as level as possible, allowing the wheels and propeller shaft to turn.
Remove universal joint snap rings if equipped, so inclinometer base sits flat.
Rotate shaft until transmission/transfer case output yoke bearing is facing downward.
NOTE:
Always take measurements from front to rear and on the same side of the vehicle.
Place Inclinometer (special tool #7663, Inclinometer) on yoke bearing cap or pinion flange ring parallel to the shaft. Center bubble in sight glass and record measurement (A).
This measurement will give you the transmission yoke Output Angle (A).

Fig 2: Propeller Shaft Angle (C)
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Rotate propeller shaft 90 degrees and place Inclinometer on yoke bearing parallel to the shaft. Center bubble in sight glass and record measurement. This measurement can also be taken at the rear end of the shaft.
This measurement will give you the Propeller Shaft Angle (C).

Fig 3: Companion Flange Input Angle (B)
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Rotate propeller shaft 90 degrees and place inclinometer on companion flange yoke bearing parallel to the shaft. Center bubble in sight glass and record measurement.
This measurement will give you the pinion Companion Flange Input Angle (B).
Subtract smaller figure from larger (C minus A) to obtain Transmission/Transfer Case Output Operating Angle .
Subtract smaller figure from larger (C minus B) to obtain axle Input Operating Angle .

Fig 4: Universal Joint Angle Example

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

Refer to rules and example below for additional information.

RULES

Good cancellation of U-joint operating angles should be within 1 degree.
Operating angles should be less than 3 degrees.
Operating angles less than 10 degrees for double cardan U-joint.
At least 1/2 of one degree continuous operating propeller shaft angle.