Chrysler DODGE D150 1993 Service Manual page 946

PROPELLER SHAFTS 1 6 - 1
P R O P E L L E R S H A F T S
C O N T E N T S
page
GENERAL INFORMATION 1 TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
PROPELLER SHAFT REPLACEMENT 8 UNIVERSAL JOINT REPLACEMENT
SERVICE DIAGNOSIS/PROCEDURES 3
page
15
10
G E N E R A L I N F O R M A T I O N
PROPELLER SHAFTS
The basic function of a propeller shaft is to trans­
mit power from one point to another. The shaft is de­
signed to send torque through an angle from the
transmission (transfer case on 4WD vehicles) to the
axle (Fig. 1).
The propeller shaft must operate through con­
stantly changing relative angles between the trans­
mission and axle. It also must be capable of changing
length while transmitting torque. The axle rides sus­
pended by springs in a floating motion. This means
the propeller shaft must contract, expand and change
operating angles. This is accomplished through uni­
versal joints. The U-joints permit the propeller shaft
to operate at different angles. The slip joints (or
yokes) permit contraction or expansion.
Tubular propeller shafts are balanced by the man­
ufacturer with weights spot welded to the tube.
The propeller shaft is designed and built with t h e
yoke lugs in line with each other. This is called phas­
ing. This design produces the smoothest running con­
dition. An out of phase shaft can cause a vibration.
Before undercoating a vehicle, the propeller
shaft a n d the U-joints should b e covered. This
S L I P Y O K E B O O T
FRONT
PROPELLER
SHAFT
REAR
PROPELLER SHAFT
Fig. 1 Front and Rear Propeller Shafts (4 WD)
J9216-23