Propeller Shaft: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Before removing the propeller shaft, wrap the metal parts with a cloth or rubber material.
In case of DOJ type, before removing the propeller shaft, wrap the metal parts (installed at the rubber boot of center DOJ) with a cloth or rubber material, as shown in the figure. Rubber boot may be damaged due to interference with adjacent metal parts while bending the DOJ during removal.

Fig 1: Identifying Propeller Shaft

Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Disconnect the ground cable from battery.
Move the select lever or gear shift lever to "N".
Release the parking brake.
Jack-up the vehicle and support it with sturdy racks.
Remove the center exhaust pipes.
Non-turbo model

< Ref. to REMOVAL , Center Exhaust Pipe. >

Turbo model

< Ref. to REMOVAL , Center Exhaust Pipe. >
Remove the rear exhaust pipe and muffler.
Non-turbo model

< Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe. > < Ref. to REMOVAL , Muffler. > Turbo model

< Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe. > < Ref. to REMOVAL , Muffler. >
Remove the differential mount front cover.

Fig 2: Locating Differential Mount Front Cover Bolts
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Make matching marks on affected parts before removal.

Fig 3: Identifying Matching Marks
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Remove the three bolts which hold propeller shaft to rear differential.
Remove the remaining bolt.
Remove the two bolts which hold center bearing to vehicle body.

Fig 4: Locating Two Bolts Which Hold Center Bearing To Vehicle
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the propeller shaft from transmission.
CAUTION:
- Be careful not to damage the oil seals and frictional surface of sleeve yoke.
- Cover the center exhaust pipe with a cloth to keep off any ATF or oil spilled from transmission when removing the propeller shaft.
Fig 5: Removing Propeller Shaft From Transmission
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Install the extension cap to transmission.
NOTE: If the extension cap is not available, place a vinyl bag over opening and fasten with string to prevent gear oil or ATF from leaking.

Fig 6: Locating Extension Cap On Transmission
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.