Driveshaft Indexing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mercury Mariner and 2008 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If indexing the driveshaft does not eliminate the vibration, balance the driveshaft. For additional information, refer to Driveshaft Runout and Balancing .

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING AND LIFTING article.

NOTE: Do not reuse constant velocity (CV) joint bolts or flange bolts. Install new bolts or damage to the vehicle may occur.

Remove and discard the driveshaft-to-transfer case bolts.

Fig 1: Identifying Driveshaft Flange Bolts

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable prybar as shown, separate the driveshaft from the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) flange.

Fig 2: Identifying Prybar

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Index-mark the shaft for reference.

Rotate the flange 90 degrees clockwise.

Fig 3: Rotating Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Connect the front driveshaft and install the new bolts. For additional information, refer to DRIVESHAFT article.

NOTE: Do not reuse the bolts for the pinion yoke. Install new bolts or damage to the vehicle may occur.

Disconnect the rear driveshaft U-joint flange.
- Discard the bolts.

Fig 4: Locating Rear Driveshaft Universal Joint Flange Bolts

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Rotate the rear pinion 90 degrees clockwise.

Fig 5: Rotating Rear Pinion 90 Degrees Clockwise

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Connect the rear driveshaft and install the new bolts. For additional information, refer to DRIVESHAFT article.
Test drive the vehicle.
Repeat the procedure if necessary.