Removal Procedure

Important:  The driveline components in this vehicle are factory system-balanced. System balance provides a smoother running driveline operation. Observe the position of all the driveline components. Accurately mark the relationship of the components before removal. These components include the propeller shafts, the drive axles, the pinion flanges, and the output shafts. All components must be reassembled in the exact relationship to each other as they were before removal. Follow the specifications, the torque values, and any measurements made prior to disassembly in order to maintain the factory system balance.

1. Raise the vehicle.
2. Accurately reference mark the propeller shaft.
3. Remove the bolts from the rear of the pinion flange.
4. Remove the retainers.

   Important:  Do not pound on the original propeller shaft yoke ears. The injection joints may fracture. Never pry or place any tool between a yoke and a universal joint.

5. Remove the yoke and cross assembly.
Fig 1: Yoke & Cross Assembly
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
6. Tape the bearing cups in order to prevent the loss of bearing rollers.
7. Remove the propeller shaft by using the following procedure:
   1. 7.1. Slide the propeller shaft forward.
   2. 7.2. Lower the propeller shaft and remove under the rear axle.
   3. 7.3. Do not allow the universal joint to incline greatly; the joint may fracture.
8. Clean all the parts with a suitable solvent.
9. Inspect the outer diameter of the nylon injected yoke for burrs. Burring damages the transmission seal.
10. Inspect for proper installation and uniform seating of the bearing cups.
11. Inspect the slip yoke splines for wear.
12. Inspect for twisted slip yoke splines or possibly the wrong universal joint. Replace the parts as necessary.