Propeller Shaft: Removal

CAUTION:

Do not disassemble the center of the propeller shaft.
Before removing propeller shaft, wrap the metal parts attached to the rubber boot of the center joint with a cloth or rubber material, as shown in the figure. The rubber boot may be damaged due to interference with adjacent metal parts while bending the joint during removal.

Fig 1: Locating Rubber Boot
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Shift the select lever or gear shift lever to neutral.
Release the parking brake.
Lift up the vehicle.
Remove the rear exhaust pipe and muffler.
- Rear exhaust pipe
  - H4 non-turbo model: Refer to REMOVAL .
  - H6 model: Refer to REMOVAL .
- Muffler
  - H4 non-turbo model: Refer to REMOVAL .
  - H6 model: Refer to REMOVAL .
Remove the bolts to remove the front heat shield cover.

Fig 2: Locating Front Heat Shield Cover Bolts
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the propeller shaft assembly.
CAUTION: Do not disassemble the propeller shaft.
1. Place alignment marks (A) on the flange yoke and rear differential.
2. Remove four bolts holding the propeller shaft to the rear differential.
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Alignment Marks On Flange Yoke And Rear Differential
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
3. Remove the center bearing.
  
  Fig 4: Locating Center Bearing Bolts
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
4. Remove the propeller shaft from transmission.
  NOTE:
  - Use a container to catch ATF or oil flowing from propeller shaft.
  - To prevent ATF from leaking, install extension cap etc. to the transmission.