Rainier 2WD V8-5.3L VIN P (2004)
Drive/Propeller Shaft: Description and Operation
Propeller Shaft Description and Operation
The front propeller shaft consists of the following components:
^
Propeller shaft tube
^
Universal joint
^
Flange yoke
^
Constant velocity joint
The rear propeller shaft consists of the following components:
^
Propeller shaft tube
^
2 universal joints
^
Slip yoke
Front Propeller Shaft Operation
The front propeller shaft connects the transfer case to the front axle. It transmits the rotating force from the transfer case to the front axle when the
transfer case is engaged.
Rear Propeller Shaft Operation
The rear propeller shaft connects the transmission or transfer case to the rear axle. It transmits the rotating force from the transmission or transfer case
to the rear axle.
Propeller Shaft Phasing Description
The propeller shaft is designed and built with the yoke lugs or ears in line with each other. This produces the smoothest running shaft possible. A
propeller shaft designed with built in yoke lugs in line is known as in - phase. An out of phase propeller shaft often causes vibration. The propeller
shaft generates vibration from speeding up and slowing down each time the universal joint goes around. The vibration is the same as a person
snapping a rope and watching the wave reaction flow to the end. An in phase propeller shaft is similar to 2 persons snapping a rope at the same time
and watching the waves meet and cancel each other out. A total cancellation of vibration produces a smooth flow of power in the drive line. All
splined shaft slip yokes are keyed in order to ensure proper phasing.
Universal Joint Description
The universal joint is connected to the propeller shaft. The universal consist of 4 caps with needle bearings and grease seals mounted on the trunnions
of a cross or spider. These bearings and caps are greased at the factory and no periodic maintenance is required. The bearings and caps are pressed
into the yokes and held in place with snap rings' except for 2 bearings on some models witch are strapped onto the pinion flange of the differential.
Universal joints are designed to handle the effects of various loads and rear axle windup conditions during acceleration and braking. The universal
joint operates efficiently and safely within the designed angle variations. when the design angles are exceeded, the operational life of the joint
decreases.
