Genuine Nissan Pathfinder Drive Shaft

Nissan Pathfinder Drive Shaft Parts Questions & Answers

• Shaft Assembly-Front PROPELLER
  37200-0W700
  Q: How do you inspect a driveshaft for potential issues, and what steps are involved in checking the driveshaft's condition and Universal Joints on Nissan Pathfinder?

  A: A driveshaft is a tube, or a pair of tubes, that transmits power between the transmission (or transfer case on 4WD models) and the differential. Universal joints are located at either end of the drive shaft and in the center on two-piece driveshafts. Single-piece rear driveshafts employ a splined yoke at the front, which slips into the extension housing of the transmission. Two-piece driveshafts have a center support bearing. The universal joints are lubricated for life and must be replaced if problems develop. Problems with the driveshaft are usually indicated by a noise or vibration while driving the vehicle. To inspect the driveshaft, raise the rear of the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. Block the front wheels to keep the vehicle from rolling off the stands. Release the parking brake and place the transmission in Neutral. Crawl under the vehicle and visually inspect the driveshaft for any dents or cracks in the tubing. Check for oil leakage at the front and rear of the driveshaft. Have an assistant rotate a rear wheel so the driveshaft will rotate and make sure the universal joints are operating properly without binding, noise or looseness. Listen for any noise from the center bearing (if equipped). Check the rubber portion of the center bearing for cracking or separation. Check the driveshaft mounting bolts at the ends to make sure they're tight. On 4WD models, the above driveshaft checks should be repeated on the front driveshaft, as well. Check for leakage where the driveshafts connect to the transfer case and front differential. Check for looseness in the joints of the front drive axles. Also check for grease or oil leakage from around the drive axles by inspecting the rubber boots and both ends of each axle.
• Shaft Assembly-Front PROPELLER
  37200-0W700
  Q: How to remove, inspect, and reinstall a driveshaft in a Nissan Pathfinder?

  A: Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. Place the transmission in Neutral with the parking brake off. Make reference marks on the driveshaft flange and the pinion flange in line with each other. If you're working on a1999 or later 2WD Pathfinder, also mark the front of the driveshaft to the transmission flange. Remove the rear universal joint nuts and bolts. If the vehicle has a two-piece driveshaft, unbolt the center support bearing from the cross member. Lower the rear of the driveshaft and slide the front of the driveshaft out of the transmission or transfer case. Wrap a plastic bag over the transmission or transfer case housing and hold it in place with a rubber band. Remove the plastic bag from the transmission or transfer case and wipe the area clean. Slide the front of the driveshaft into the transmission or transfer case or, if you're working on a 1999 or later 2WD Pathfinder, line up the match marks, install the bolts and tighten them to the torque. On models with a two-piece driveshaft, position the center support bearing on the cross member, install the fasteners and tighten them to the torque. Raise the rear of the driveshaft into position, checking to be sure the marks are in alignment. Install the bolts and nuts, tightening them to the torque. For 4WD models, mark the relationship of the driveshaft to the front differential companion flange and to the transfer case companion flange. Remove the bolts and nuts from the flanges, then lower the shaft from the vehicle. Attach the ends of the shaft to the differential and transfer case companion flanges, install the bolts and nuts and tighten them to the torque. Install the skid plate (if equipped).