Propeller Shaft: Removal

NOTE:

Before removing propeller shaft, wrap metal parts with a cloth or rubber material.
In case of a ED J type, wrap the metal parts at the rubber boot of EDJ with a cloth or rubber material before removing propeller shaft, as shown in the figure. The rubber boot may be damaged due to interference with adjacent metal parts while bending the EDJ during removal.

Fig 1: Wrapping Metal Parts At Rubber Boot Of EDJ With Cloth Or Rubber Material
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Disconnect the ground cable from the battery.
Shift the select lever or gear shift lever to neutral.
Release the parking brake.
Lift up the vehicle.
Remove the center exhaust pipe.
Remove the rear exhaust pipe and muffler.
Remove the heat shield cover.

Fig 2: Identifying Heat Shield Cover
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Make alignment marks on the flange yoke and rear differential before removal.

Fig 3: Identifying Marks On Flange Yoke And Rear Differential
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Remove the three bolts holding the propeller shaft to the rear differential.
Remove the remaining bolt.
Remove the two bolts which hold center bearing to vehicle body.

Fig 4: Identifying Center Bearing Bolts
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Remove the propeller shaft from transmission.
CAUTION:
- Be careful not to damage oil seals and frictional surface of the sleeve yoke.
- Cover the center exhaust pipe with a cloth to keep off any ATF or oil spilled from transmission when removing propeller shaft.
NOTE: Use a container to catch ATF or oil flowing from propeller shaft.

Fig 5: Removing Propeller Shaft
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Install an extension cap to the transmission.
NOTE: If extension cap is not available, place vinyl bag over opening and fasten with string to prevent gear oil or ATF from leaking.

Fig 6: Identifying Extension Cap
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