Dodge Durango
Service Manual
Differential and Driveline » Propeller shafts » Description and operation
Center bearing

DESCRIPTION

Vehicles equipped with a two-piece propeller shaft uses a rubber insulated center bearing. The bearing is used to support the shafts where they are joined together.

Fig. 2 Front Propeller Shaft

1 - REAR AXLE

2 - COMPANION FLANGE

3 - TRANSFER CASE

4 - FRONT PROPELLER SHAFT

5 - COMPANION YOKE

6 - FRONT AXLE

7 - COMPANION FLANGE

8 - REAR PROPELLER SHAFT

9 - COMPANION YOKE

OPERATION

The propeller shaft center bearing serves to divide the required propeller shaft length into two smaller shafts, which has several inherent advantages. Having two short propeller shafts instead of one long shaft decreases the chance of unwanted noise and vibrations. The shorter shafts are easier to balance and serve to increase ground clearance while maintaining acceptable driveline angles.

Fig. 3 Rear Propeller Shaft with Center Bearing