Drive/Propeller Shaft: Testing and Inspection

Fig. 1 Propeller Shaft Diagnosis (Part 1 Of 2):

Fig. 1 Propeller Shaft Diagnosis (Part 2 Of 2):

Fig. 2 Measuring Rear Propeller Shaft Runout:

Fig. 3 Measuring Front Propeller Shaft Runout:

Fig. 4 Propeller Shaft Runout Specifications:

Refer to Fig. 1 for propeller shaft diagnosis.

Propeller Shaft Runout Measurement
1. Raise and support vehicle so that wheels can rotate.
2. Attach a dial indicator using a magnetic base to a smooth place on vehicle underbody. Do not attach dial indicator base at a weld.
3. Take dial indicator readings at propeller shaft check points, Figs. 2 and 3, and compare readings with Fig. 4. The splined end of the rear propeller shaft is needed for smooth operation of a two piece driveline. Ensure dial indicator readings are accurate.
4. With transaxle in neutral, hand rotate axle pinion flange or transaxle output shaft and measure rear propeller shaft runout. Then measure front propeller shaft runout on transaxle output shaft end. If runout exceeds specification, rotate propeller shaft 180° at companion flange and install and check runout.
5. If runout is still over specification at one or more check points, replace propeller shaft after checking for vibration or noise. Check runout on propeller shaft replacement.
6. If new propeller shaft runout is over specification, check for a bent companion flange.