Propeller Shaft: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Subaru Tribeca. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Before removing propeller shaft, wrap metal parts with a cloth or rubber material.
In case of EDJ type, wrap the metal parts at the rubber boot at the center 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: Locating EDJ Type Propeller Shaft
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Disconnect the ground cable from 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
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Make alignment marks on the flange yoke and rear differential before removal.

Fig 3: Identifying Alignment 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 Hold Center Bearing Bolts
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
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: Identifying Propeller Shaft
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
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
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.