Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings and Joints: Service and Repair

1. Remove propeller shaft.
- Identify the position of propeller shaft in relation to flanges.
- Use tool P/N 5244. Remove the center support bearing. Remove the propeller shaft. Separate the two parts.
- Clean the area around the damaged universal joint.





2. Remove snap-rings.
- Use rust penetrating oil and a punch to loosen.
- Use snap-ring pliers to remove.
3. Remove bearing cups.
- Use a vise and adjust it so that the propeller shaft yoke rests on the jaws.
- Use a plastic hammer to tap on the drive flange so that the bearing cups protrude 3-4 mm (0.12-0.16 in).

CAUTION: Do not pound on the propeller shaft tube.





4. Use a vise to pry out bearing cups.
- Position a hammer handle between the tube and the vise as shown.
- Clamp bearing cup in vise and pry out using propeller shaft as a lever.
5. Clean bearing cup areas on propeller shaft and drive flange.





6. Remove bearing cups and seals from the new spider. Make sure that the needle bearings and seals are correctly positioned in the bearing cups.
7. Position spider in yoke. Install one of the bearing cups. Tap lightly to fit the bearing cup in the universal joint.





8. Use the vise and a suitable sleeve to press in the bearing cup. Press in the bearing cup approximately 3-4 mm (0.12-0.16 in).
9. Install snap-ring.





10. Check position of the spider. The spider should be centered.
11. Install second bearing cup. Lightly tap it into position.





12. Press in the bearing cup and install the snap-ring. Guide the spider in the first bearing cup and press in the second.





13. Install spider in propeller shaft fork. Fit the spider in the propeller shaft fork. Install the bearing cups one at a time, as previously shown.





14. Check universal joint for smooth operation. If the universal joint moves hard, place the forks on the vise as shown. Lightly tap on the ends. Use a plastic hammer.





15. Lubricate splines and assemble propeller shaft. Use grease P/N 1161033-4. Make sure that center support bearing rotates smoothly without noise and that rubber seal is not damaged.

CAUTION: Make sure that the arrows align and that the front propeller shaft forks attain the original position. Angular deviations between the forks will cause vibrations.

16. Install propeller shaft.
- Install one screw at each end. Install the center bearing support, do not tighten the screws.
- Install all screws for the drive flanges. Use tool P/N 5244. Center the support and tighten.