Ford Explorer: Driveshaft / General Procedures - Driveshaft Angle Measurement

Check

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.

All vehicles

1. Carry out the following preliminary setup steps:
   
   1. Inspect the U-joints 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.
      

Vehicles with flex coupling, CV joints

1. Calibrate the anglemaster by placing it on the bottom of the transmission fluid pan and press the ALT-ZERO button.
   
   • Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
     

1. Measure the slope of the front tube of the rear driveshaft. The measured angle will be the front joint operating angle.
   
   • Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
     

1. 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.
     

1. Measure the slope of the rear tube of the rear driveshaft. The measured angle will be the center joint operating angle.
   
   • Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
     

1. Calibrate the anglemaster by placing it on the clean, flat locator surface on the right side of the drive axle and press the ALT-ZERO button.
   
   • Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
     

1. Measure the slope of the rear tube of the rear driveshaft. The measured angle will be the rear joint operating angle.
   
   • Special Tool(s): Anglemaster II Driveline Inclinometer/Protractor 164-R2402.
     

1. If the angle is not within specifications, repair or adjust to obtain the correct angle. Inspect the engine mounts, transmission mounts, transfer case mounts, center support bearing mounting, rear subframe, rear axle, rear axle mounting or the frame for wear or damage.
   

4x4 Vehicles with front driveshafts

1. Front driveshaft joint angle is set from the factory and is not adjustable.