Propeller Shaft: Removal

CAUTION:

Before removing propeller shaft, wrap metal parts with a cloth or rubber material.
Do not disassemble the center EDJ of the propeller shaft.
Before removing the propeller shaft, wrap the center joint part with a cloth, etc. If the joint is bent during removal, the rubber boot may be damaged due to interference with metal parts.

Fig 1: Removing Propeller Shaft

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 center exhaust pipe.
- STI model: <Ref. to REMOVAL , Center Exhaust Pipe.>
- Except for STI model: <Ref. to REMOVAL , Center Exhaust Pipe.>
Remove the rear exhaust pipe.
- STI model: <Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe.>
- Except for STI model: <Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe.>
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.
- Use a container to catch ATF or oil flowing from propeller shaft.
- To prevent ATF from leaking, install extension cap etc. to the transmission.
- Be careful not to damage oil seals and contact surface of the sleeve yoke.
1. Place alignment marks (A) on the flange yoke and rear differential.
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Alignment Marks On Flange Yoke And Rear Differential
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
2. Remove the bolts and remove the propeller shaft from the rear differential.
  
  Fig 4: Locating Propeller Shaft Bolt And Rear Differential
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
3. Remove the end of propeller shaft from the transmission.
  
  Fig 5: Removing Propeller Shaft End From Transmission
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  
  NOTE: Use a container to catch oil flowing from propeller shaft.
4. Install extension cap (A) to the transmission.
  
  Fig 6: Identifying Transmission Extension Cap
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  
  NOTE: If extension cap (A) is not available, place vinyl bag over opening and fasten with string to prevent gear oil from leaking.