Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Overview - Drive Shaft, Servicing: Notes
General Repair Instructions, refer to GENERAL REPAIR INFORMATION .
No repair work can be carried out on the driveshaft with the exception of removing, installing and adjusting.
Always store and transport the driveshaft in its extended position.
The driveshaft can be bent as far as the end stop of the center joint provided that no force is used. Bending the joint forcibly to the end stop can damage the center joint and/or the protective boot.
If the driveshaft is separated only from the transmission or the rear final drive, the driveshaft must be tied up by the end or otherwise supported. If necessary, the driveshaft can be bent as far as the end stop of the center joint provided that no force is used.
Mark the position of all the parts to each other before removing them. Install in the same position otherwise the imbalance will be excessive and the bearings could get damaged causing rumbling noises.
Use the Counterhold - Kit - Multiple Use T10172 with the Counterhold - Kit - Adapters 5 T10172/5 to loosen or tighten the driveshaft bolts. Refer to Figure.
After removing the driveshaft from the rear final drive, the balance disc (thick washer) that may be fitted between the lock plate and the socket head bolt must not be installed again.
If problems occur (noise or vibration), make sure that the center bearing is free of stress and check the radial runout of the driveshaft flange at the rear final drive before replacing the driveshaft, refer to RADIAL RUN-OUT AT FLANGE/DRIVESHAFT, MEASURING AND MARKING .
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.