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3 - 2
DIFFERENTIAL AND DRIVELINE
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Fig. 2 Single Cardan U-Joint
PROPELLER SHAFT JOINT ANGLE
When two shafts come together at a common joint,
the bend that is formed is called the operating angle.
The larger the angle, the larger the amount of angu-
lar acceleration and deceleration of the joint. This
speeding up and slowing down of the joint must be
cancelled to produce a smooth power flow. This is
done through the phasing of a propeller shaft and
Fig. 1 Propeller Shafts
ensuring that the proper propeller shaft joint work-
ing angles are maintained.
A propeller shaft is properly phased when the yoke
ends are in the same plane, or in line. A twisted
shaft will make the yokes out of phase and cause a
noticeable vibration.
When taking propeller shaft joint angle measure-
ments, or checking the phasing, of two piece shafts,
consider each shaft separately.
Ideally the driveline system should have;
• Angles that are equal or opposite within 1
degree of each other.
• Have a 3 degree maximum operating angle.
• Have at least a 1/2 degree continuous operating
(propeller shaft) angle.
Engine speed (rpm) is the main factor in determin-
ing the maximum allowable operating angle. As a
guide to the maximum normal operating angles refer
to (Fig. 4).
LUBRICATION
The factory installed universal joints are lubricated
for the life of the vehicle and do not need lubrication.
All universal joints should be inspected for leakage
and damage each time the vehicle is serviced. If seal
leakage or damage exists, the universal joint should
be replaced.
TJ
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