Here is the step-by-step guide for removing a 370Z driveshaft.
1. Lifting the Vehicle
-
Raise the car using a lift or jack stands.
-
Placement: If using jack stands, place them securely behind the rear brace arm in the reinforced circular area [00:08].
2. Exhaust Removal
-
To get to the driveshaft, you must first clear the exhaust path.
-
Hangers: Use an exhaust hanger removal tool to push the hanger rods out of the rubber grommets [00:25].
-
Mid-Section: Remove the center brace to drop the exhaust and clear it away from the test pipes and heat shield [01:11].
3. Heat Shield Access
-
The driveshaft is covered by a thin metal heat shield held by six bolts: two 12mms on each side and two 10mms at the front [01:58].
-
Pro Tip: If your bolts are ground down or stripped from the car being low, you can carefully bend the thin metal down just enough to allow the driveshaft to drop [02:27].
4. Removing the Driveshaft Bolts
-
The driveshaft is connected to the differential by four 17mm nuts and bolts [02:44].
-
Use a 17mm impact socket with a 3/8" wobbly extension. The socket fits perfectly inside the U-joint area [02:52].
-
Safety Note: When removing the final bolt, be prepared for the driveshaft to drop.
5. Extraction
-
If the driveshaft doesn't fall free on its own, use a small pry bar to separate it from the differential flange [03:35].
-
Slide the driveshaft toward the rear of the car to pull the yoke out of the transmission and fully remove it [03:54].
You can watch the full process here: https://youtu.be/_bYHPgddzDk