Dodge 2000 DURANGO Service Manual page 52

3 - 2 PROPELLER SHAFTS
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
Fig. 1 Reference Marks on Yokes
1 – REFERENCE MARKS
OPERATION
The propeller shaft must operate through con-
stantly changing relative angles between the trans-
mission and axle. It must also be capable of changing
length while transmitting torque. The axle rides sus-
pended by springs in a floating motion. The propeller
shaft must be able to change operating angles when
going over various road surfaces. This is accom-
plished through universal joints, which permit the
propeller shaft to operate at different angles. The slip
joints (or yokes) permit contraction or expansion (Fig.
2), (Fig. 3), and (Fig. 4).
Before undercoating a vehicle, the propeller
shaft and the U-joints should be covered to pre-
vent an out-of-balance condition and driveline
vibration.
CAUTION: Use original
parts for attaching the propeller shafts. The speci-
fied torque must always be applied when tightening
the fasteners.
CENTER BEARING
DESCRIPTION
Vehicles equipped with a two-piece propeller shaft
uses a rubber insulated center bearing. The bearing
is used to support the shafts where they are joined
together.
equipment replacement
Fig. 2 Front Propeller Shaft
1 – REAR AXLE
2 – COMPANION FLANGE
3 – TRANSFER CASE
4 – FRONT PROPELLER SHAFT
5 – COMPANION YOKE
6 – FRONT AXLE
7 – COMPANION FLANGE
8 – REAR PROPELLER SHAFT
9 – COMPANION YOKE
OPERATION
The propeller shaft center bearing serves to divide
the required propeller shaft length into two smaller
shafts, which has several inherent advantages. Hav-
ing two short propeller shafts instead of one long
shaft decreases the chance of unwanted noise and
vibrations. The shorter shafts are easier to balance
and serve to increase ground clearance while main-
taining acceptable driveline angles.
DN