SECTION 09: PROPELLER SHAFT
4
DOB 2490-2789 | X3-45 Commuter PA1605 Maintenance Manual (Final Version – Rev.2 April 2016)
The propeller shaft transmits power from the
transmission to the differential (Figure 1). The
propeller shaft is Dana-Spicer Life Series SPL250
type with tubular shafts. It is provided with two
heavy-duty universal joints (Figure 1).
The propeller shaft has a half round end yoke at
each end. The splined yoke is connected to the
differential by a half round end yoke with two
needle bearings.
The other extremity (spline sleeve, tube and tube
yoke assy) is connected to the transmission by a
half round end yoke with two needle bearings.
Furthermore, a
permanently lubricated
slip joint
on the propeller shaft compensates for variations
in distance between the transmission and the
differential. Grease should be cleaned and fresh
grease should be applied if slip member
components are disassembled.
The rise and fall of the drive axle bring about
these variations as the vehicle passes over
uneven surfaces. The slip joint also eases
removal of the transmission or the drive axle.
WARNING
NYCT MAINTENANCE DIRECTIVE
PROHIBITS REUSE OF PROPELLER SHAFT
COLD FORMED BEARING RETAINERS AND
BOLTS OR STAMPED STRAPS AND STRAP
BOLTS
FIGURE 2: COLD FORMED BEARING RETAINER AND
BOLTS AS USED ON PREVOST X3-45 COMMUTER
DO NOT
reuse
cold formed bearing
retainers
and
bolts
. Reuse of bearing retainer
and bolts can cause driveline failure, which
can result in separation of the driveline from
the vehicle.
MAINTENANCE
Lubricate propeller shaft universal joints
periodically, every 24,000 miles. Apply grease
gun pressure to the lube fittings (1 grease fitting
on each universal joint). Use a good quality
lithium-base grease such as: NLGI No.2 E.P.
Grease (suitable for most temperatures). Refer
to Spicer Driveshaft’s Service Manual DSSM-
0100 for further details.
MAINTENANCE
Perform “Inspection Procedures” as per
Spicer
Life Series Driveshafts Service Manual DSSM-
0100
every 6,000 miles
.
NOTE
Do not assume that bearing cavities have been
filled with new grease unless it has expelled
around all seals.
2. NYCT PROPELLER SHAFT
MAINTENANCE DIRECTIVE
Before removing the driveshaft from vehicle,
inspect all components (universal joints, slip
joints, hardware, etc.) for deterioration (rust
or corrosion) or excessive play. If all
components pass inspection, grease
universal joints they are able to be lubricated
properly
(
fresh
grease showing at all u-joint
end caps. If any component does not accept
grease, it must be replaced.
Replace splined slip joint if seal is damaged
or if welch plug (cap) is missing (when
applicable).
Unless the slip section (joint) is being
replaced, the driveshaft must be removed as
an assembly. The driveshaft must be
completely disconnected from the differential
and transmission yokes
only;
the slip
section must not be disconnected unless it is
being replaced.
The driveshaft and yokes must be marked
(phasing marks) (see paragraph 3.3 mark
propeller shaft (PHASING MARKS)) before
removal to ensure reinstallation in the same
position as removed.
