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Drive Shaft Angles

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford RV Cutaway, 2002 Ford Econoline, 2002 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2002 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: Prior to checking driveline angularity, inspect the "U" joints for correct operation.
  1. Check the vehicle for evidence of overload or sagging. Check for specified air pressure in all 4 tires. Normalize the suspension. Drive the vehicle onto a drive-on hoist or front-end alignment rack.
  2. Inspect the suspension and chassis. Verify that the vehicle curb position ride height is within specification. Measure the curb position ride height with the vehicle empty and all fluids full. See appropriate SPECIFICATION & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.
  3. Place the Driveline Inclinometer (164-R2402) on a clean, flat level section on the bottom of the frame rail. See Fig 1. Press the ALT ZERO button to calibrate the driveline inclinometer to the vehicle.
  4. For the drive shaft angle reading, place the driveline inclinometer flush against the bottom of the drive shaft. See Fig 2. Check and record the reading. Compare the results with the correct angles. See Fig 5-Fig 8.
  5. To check the pinion angle, rotate the drive shaft so that the rear axle pinion flange yoke ear is parallel to the floor. Remove the "U" joint snap ring, then install the driveline inclinometer. Check and record the pinion angle reading. See Fig 3. If the angle is not within specifications, repair or adjust to obtain the correct angles. See Fig 5-Fig 8. Inspect the rear suspension, rear axle, rear axle mounting or the frame for wear or damage.
  6. To check the engine angle, rotate the drive shaft so that the slip yoke ear is parallel to the floor. Remove the "U" joint snap ring, then install the driveline inclinometer. Check and record the engine angle reading. See Fig 4. If the angle is not within specifications, repair or adjust to obtain the correct angles. See Fig 5-Fig 8. Inspect the powertrain/drivetrain mounts or frame rails for wear or damage.
Fig 1: Identifying Driveline Inclinometer
G00196579Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 2: Measuring Drive Shaft Angle
G00196580Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 3: Measuring Pinion Angle
G00196581Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 4: Measuring Engine Angle
G00196582Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 5: Determining Transmission Angle (All Conditions)
G00199328Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 6: Determining Coupling Shaft Angle (All Conditions)
G00199329Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 7: Determining Drive Shaft Angle
G00199330Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 8: Determining Differential Pinion Angle
G00199331Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
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