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Removal And Installation: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Fiat 500X. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:

Propeller shaft installation is a two-person operation. Never allow propeller shaft to hang from the center bearing, or while only connected to the transmission or rear axle flanges. A helper is required. If a propeller shaft section is hung unsupported, damage may occur to the shaft, coupler, and center bearing from over-angulation. This may result in driveline vibrations or component failure.

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING, STANDARD PROCEDURE .
  2. Remove the muffler. Refer to MUFFLER, EXHAUST, REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
  3. Remove both rear tires and wheels. Refer to REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
  4. Remove the rear suspension knuckles with hub and bearings. Refer to KNUCKLE, REAR, REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
  5. Remove both rear half shafts. Refer to REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
  6. Remove the bolts that attach the rear stabilizer bar to the rear crossmember and position aside. Refer to STABILIZER BAR, REAR SUSPENSION, REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
    GC0165669Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  7. Disconnect the differential actuator wire harness connector (1).
    GC0164692Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  8. Remove the nuts (1) and remove the propeller shaft skid plate.
    NOTE:

    Protect the propeller shaft coating with a suitable duct tape to prevent any scratches caused by the propeller shaft support tools.

    GC0163391Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  9. Position support special tools 2000043000 (1b) and 2000043400 (1a) under the propeller shaft.
    GC0163943Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
    CAUTION:

    Do not allow the propeller shaft to hang from the vehicle unsupported. Damage may occur to the joint, boot, and center bearing from over-angulation.

  10. Install the protective sleeve (1) at the center propeller shaft joint to protect the boot as shown.
    NOTE:

    The protective sleeve is provided in the parts package with the dust cover and snap rings for the propeller shaft.

    GC0164248Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  11. Remove and DISCARD  the propeller shaft center support bolts (1).
    GC0165923Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
    NOTE:

    The dust cover must be replaced every time the propeller shaft is removed.

  12. Slide the dust cover (1) at the rear of the propeller shaft towards the differential to access the snap ring.
    GC0164769Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
    NOTE:

    The snap ring must be replaced every time the propeller shaft is removed.

    NOTE:

    Tool 2019500030 Retractor (1) is not available for NAFTA. Use commercially available snap ring pliers.

  13. For NAFTA market, use commercially available snap ring pliers to open the snap ring. For EMEA market, using tool 2019500030 Retractor (1), open the snap ring at the Rear Driveline Unit (RDU).
    GC0165111Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  14. Disconnect the propeller shaft from the RDU pinion (1).
  15. Remove special tool 2019500030.
    GC0164593Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  16. Position a suitable hydraulic lift to support the RDU and Remove and DISCARD  the front RDU mounting bolt (1).
    GC0164019Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  17. Remove and DISCARD  the rear RDU isolator through bolts (1a) and remove the RDU (1b).
    GC0166164Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  18. If actuator removal is necessary, remove the four actuator to RDU screws (1).
  19. Remove the actuator from the RDU.