Jeep Cherokee

 Service Manual

Differential and driveline » Propeller shafts » Service procedures
Propeller shaft angle measurement

To accurately check driveline alignment, raise and support the vehicle at the axles as level as possible.

Allow the wheels and propeller shaft to turn.

1.  Remove any external bearing snap rings, if equipped, from universal joint so protractor base sits flat.
2.  Rotate the shaft until transmission/transfer case output yoke bearing is facing downward. Always make measurements from front to rear. Also, be sure to take all measurements while working from the same side of the vehicle.
3.  Place Inclinometer on yoke bearing (A) parallel to the shaft (Fig. 9). Center bubble in sight glass and record measurement. This measurement will give you the transmission or Output Yoke Angle (A).

Fig. 9 Front (Output) Angle Measurement (A)

1 - SLIP YOKE BEARING CAP
2 - SPECIAL TOOL 7663 (J-23498A)

4. Rotate propeller shaft 90 degrees and place Inclinometer on yoke bearing parallel to the shaft (Fig. 10). Center bubble in sight glass and record measurement. This measurement can also be taken at the rear end of the shaft. This measurement will give you the Propeller Shaft Angle (C).
5.  Subtract smaller figure from larger (C minus A) to obtain Transmission Output Operating Angle.
6.  Rotate propeller shaft 90 degrees and place Inclinometer on pinion yoke bearing parallel to the shaft (Fig. 11). Center bubble in sight glass and record measurement.

Fig. 10 Propeller Shaft Angle Measurement (C)

1 - SHAFT YOKE BEARING CAP
2 - SPECIAL TOOL 7663 (J23498-A)

This measurement will give you the pinion shaft or Input Yoke Angle (B).

(7) Subtract smaller figure from larger (C minus B) to obtain axle Input Operating Angle.

Fig. 11 Rear (Input) Angle Measurement (B)

1 - PINION YOKE BEARING CAP
2 - SPECIAL TOOL 7663 (J-23498A)

Refer to rules given below and the example in (Fig. 12) for additional information.

Fig. 12 Universal Joint Angle Example

1 - 4.9 Angle (C)
2 - 3.2 Angle (B)
3 - Input Yoke
4 - 3.0 Angle (A)
5 - Output Yoke

• Good cancellation of U-joint operating angles (within 1).
•  Operating angles less than 3.
•  At least 1/2 of one degree continuous operating (propeller shaft) angle.

Driveline angle measurement preparation

Propeller shaft angle measurement