Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings and Joints: Testing and Inspection

Driveline Angle Inspection





Special Tool(s)

NOTE: An incorrect driveline angle can cause a vibration or shudder.

All vehicles
1. Check the vehicle for evidence of overload or sagging. Check for specified air pressures information in all 4 tires.
2. Normalize the suspension.
3. Drive the vehicle onto a drive-on hoist or back onto a front-end alignment rack.
4. Inspect the suspension and chassis. Verify that the vehicle curb position ride height is within specification.
^ Measure the curb position ride height with the vehicle empty and all fluids full.

4.0L vehicles





5. Place the Inclinometer flush against the bottom of the driveshaft. After the tool has been held on the driveshaft surface for 5 seconds, push the ALT ZERO button to calibrate to zero degrees. Remove the tool.





6. To check the pinion angle, rotate the driveshaft so that the pinion flange yoke ear is parallel to the floor. Install the special tool. Check and record the pinion angle reading.
^ If the angle is not within specification, repair or adjust to obtain the correct angle. Inspect the rear suspension, axle, axle mounting or the frame for wear or damage.





7. To check the engine angle, rotate the driveshaft so that the slip yoke ear is parallel to the floor. Install the special tool. Check and record the engine angle reading.
^ If the angle is not within specifications, repair or adjust to obtain the correct angles. Inspect the powertrain drivetrain mounts or frame rails for wear or damage.

4.6L vehicles
8. Place the Inclinometer on a flat level surface. After the tool has been held on the flat level surface for 5 seconds, push the ALT ZERO button to calibrate to zero degrees.





9. To check the pinion angle, install the special tool at the rear of the driveshaft. Check and record the pinion angle reading.
^ If the angle is not within specification, repair or adjust to obtain the correct angle. Inspect the rear suspension, axle, axle mounting or the frame for wear or damage.





10. To check the engine angle, install the special tool on the front of the driveshaft. Check and record the engine angle reading.
^ If the angle is not within specifications, repair or adjust to obtain the correct angles. Inspect the powertrain drivetrain mounts or frame rails for wear or damage.

11. To check the center bearing angle, calculate the mean value of the pinion angle reading and the engine angle reading.