Driveshaft Angle Measurement: Check

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2021 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Prior to checking driveline angularity, inspect the U-joints for correct operation.

NOTE: An incorrect driveline angle can cause a vibration or shudder.

NOTE: Driveline angularity is the angular relationship between the engine crankshaft, the driveshaft and the rear axle pinion. Factors determining driveline angularity include ride height, rear spring and engine mounts.

- Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402. Carry out the following preliminary setup steps:
1. Inspect the U-joint for correct operation.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface such as a drive-on hoist or back onto a front end alignment rack.
3. Calibrate the Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor by placing it on a clean, flat level section of the frame rail and press the ALT-ZERO button.
Calibrate the anglemaster by placing it on the bottom of the transfer case and press the ALT-ZERO button.
- Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Measure the slope of the rear driveshaft front tube. The measured angle will be the front joint operating angle.
- Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Calibrate the anglemaster by placing it on the clean, flat surface of the rear driveshaft front tube and press the ALT-ZERO button.
- Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: Rotate the driveshaft until the flange U-joint cup is parallel with the floor. This will simplify taking measurements.

Measure the slope of the rear driveshaft rear tube. The measured angle will be the center joint operating angle.
- Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Calibrate the anglemaster by placing it on the clean, flat locator surface on the left side of the drive axle and press the ALT-ZERO button.
- Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Measure the slope of the rear driveshaft rear tube. The measured angle will be the rear joint operating angle.
- Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: Repeat this step for each center support bearing on the driveshaft.

NOTE: It is not necessary to remove the U-joint snap ring, if equipped, for these measurements.

Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402. Measure the slope of the components in front and behind the center support bearing U-joint in the area indicated. Record the front component as angle A and the rear component as angle B.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: When 2 connected components slope in the same direction, subtract the smallest number from the larger number to find the U-joint operating angle. When 2 connected components slope in the opposite direction, add the measurements to find the U-joint operating angle.

Calculate the difference in the slope of the components to determine the U-joint operating angle.
- The U-joint operating angle is the angle formed by 2 yokes connected by a cross and bearing kit. Ideally, the operating angles on each connection of the driveshaft must:
1. be equal or within one degree of each other.
2. have a 3 degree maximum operating angle.
3. have at least one-half of one degree continuous operating angle.
If the angle is not within specifications, repair or adjust to obtain the correct angle. Inspect the engine mounts, transmission mounts, center support bearing mounting, rear suspension, rear axle, rear axle mounting or the frame for wear or damage.