Examination
1. Wear in the support bearing will cause noise and vibration when the vehicle is moving. It is best to check the bearing with the driveshaft removed (see paragraph 7).
2. Rotate the bearing and check that it rotates smoothly with no signs of play; if it is difficult to turn or if it sticks, replace it. Check also the rubber parts. If they are cracked or destroyed, replace the bearing.
Replacement
Note: Bearing replacement requires the use of a puller and a hydraulic press as well as suitable gaskets. If you do not have access to this tool, bearing replacement is best done at a service station.
3. Remove the driveline as described in paragraph 7.
4. Apply alignment marks between the front and rear sections of the driveline, taking into account that on some models the alignment marks are already applied; the raised mark on the front section must be between the two marks on the rear section of the universal joint.
5. Remove the rubber boot from the threaded sleeve nut, then completely loosen the nut and separate the two halves (see fig. 9.5).
Pic. 9.5. Details of the central bearing of the driveline
1 cardan shaft
2 cardan shaft
3 Sleeve nut
4 Rubber boot
5 Protective cover
6 Protective cover
7 Central Opera
8 Bearing
6. Remove the rubber boot from the rear section of the cardan shaft.
7. Using a puller, pull the center support assembly off the end of the shaft, noting the way the bracket is installed. Remove the front and rear bearing caps.
8. Support the support bracket assembly and carefully push the bearing out with a pipe.
9. Check all details. If wear or damage is found, replace. We remind you that the bearing caps and the rubber boot must be replaced regardless of the condition.
10. Attach the support bracket securely and push the new bearing in until it stops, using a tube that only rests against the outer race of the bearing.
11. Remove all traces of dirt from the driveline and install a new protective rear cover.
12. Make sure the support bracket is properly positioned and press the assembly all the way onto the shaft with a tube that only rests against the inner race of the bearing.
13. Install the front protective cover on the shaft and install the new rubber boot, making sure it is securely seated in the grooves of the shaft.
14. Lubricate the shaft splines with molybdenum disulphide lubricant. Carefully fit the two halves of the driveline together, making sure the alignment marks are correctly positioned (see item 4).
15. Put a rubber boot on the threaded bushing nut and install the driveline as described in paragraph 7.