Propeller Shaft Assembly: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Lexus LS 600hL. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

INSPECT FLEXIBLE COUPLING
1. Check the front and rear flexible couplings for cracks or damage.
2. Inspect the flexible coupling centering bushing. If the bushing is damaged, replace the propeller shaft with center bearing assembly
  
  Fig 1: Locating Flexible Coupling Centering Bushing
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
INSPECT PROPELLER INTERMEDIATE SHAFT
1. Using a dial indicator, measure the runout of the intermediate shaft
  Maximum runout:
  
  0.8 mm (0.0315 in.)
  
  NOTE: The dial indicator must be set at a right angle to the center of the intermediate shaft. If the shaft runout exceeds the maximum, replace the propeller shaft with center bearing assembly.
  
  Fig 2: Measuring Runout Of Intermediate Shaft
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
INSPECT PROPELLER SHAFT ASSEMBLY
1. Using a dial indicator, measure the runout of the propeller shaft
  Maximum runout:
  
  0.8 mm (0.0315 in.)
  
  NOTE: The dial indicator must be set at a right angle to the center of the propeller shaft. If the shaft runout exceeds the maximum, replace the propeller shaft with center bearing assembly.
INSPECT UNIVERSAL JOINT SPIDER ASSEMBLY
1. Check that the spider bearing rotates smoothly.
2. Check that there is no play in the spider bearing
  If necessary, replace the propeller shaft with center bearing assembly
  
  Fig 3: Checking Universal Joint Spider Assembly
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
INSPECT NO. 1 CENTER SUPPORT BEARING ASSEMBLY
1. Turn the center support bearing by hand in the rotating direction
2. Check that the center support bearing turns smoothly, and check that the seals are not cracked or damaged.
  If the center support bearing is damaged or worn, or does not turn smoothly, replace it.
  
  Fig 4: Turning Center Support Bearing
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002