Spicer 5017405 Dana Driveshaft Center Support Bearing Installation Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper installation and maintenance of the Spicer 5017405 Dana Driveshaft Center Support Bearing. This component is designed for specific Ford F250 and F350 models manufactured between 2005 and 2012. Adhering to these instructions ensures correct fitment and optimal performance of the driveshaft system.

Image 1: The Spicer 5017405 Dana Driveshaft Center Support Bearing, showing its overall structure with the bearing housed within a rubber insulator and a metal bracket.

Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working on vehicles. Failure to follow safety precautions can result in serious injury or damage to the vehicle.

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves.
• Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands or a lift before working underneath. Never rely solely on a jack.
• Disconnect the battery's negative terminal before beginning work to prevent accidental electrical discharge.
• Allow hot components to cool before handling.
• Use the correct tools for each task.
• If unsure about any step, consult a qualified automotive technician.

Components List

The package contains the following component:

• Spicer 5017405 Dana Driveshaft Center Support Bearing (Quantity: 1)

Setup and Installation

Tools Required:

• Socket wrench set
• Torque wrench
• Pry bar (optional, for stubborn components)
• Grease gun (if lubrication is needed for driveshaft splines)
• Marking tool (paint pen or chalk)
• Safety glasses and gloves
• Vehicle lift or jack stands

Installation Procedure:

1. Prepare the Vehicle: Safely lift and support the vehicle on a level surface. Ensure the transmission is in neutral (for manual) or park (for automatic) and the parking brake is engaged. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Mark Driveshaft Components: Before removal, use a marking tool to mark the alignment of the driveshaft sections relative to each other and to the differential flange and transmission output shaft. This ensures proper reassembly and helps prevent vibration issues.
3. Remove Driveshaft Bolts: Loosen and remove the bolts securing the driveshaft to the differential flange and the transmission output shaft. Support the driveshaft to prevent it from falling.
4. Remove Old Center Support Bearing: Locate the existing center support bearing. Remove the bolts securing the bearing bracket to the vehicle's frame or crossmember. Carefully lower the driveshaft.
5. Separate Driveshaft Sections: The driveshaft typically consists of two sections joined at the center support bearing. Carefully separate these sections. Note the orientation of the old bearing on the driveshaft.
6. Remove Old Bearing from Driveshaft: The old bearing is pressed onto the driveshaft. This may require a press or a specialized puller. Exercise caution to avoid damaging the driveshaft.
7. Install New Center Support Bearing: Press the new Spicer 5017405 bearing onto the driveshaft in the correct orientation. Ensure it is fully seated.


Image 2: A cross-section view of the Spicer 5017405 bearing, highlighting the internal ball bearing and the robust rubber insulator designed for vibration dampening.

8. Reassemble Driveshaft: Rejoin the driveshaft sections, ensuring the splines are clean and properly lubricated with compatible grease if specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Align the marks made in step 2.
9. Mount New Bearing Bracket: Position the new center support bearing bracket onto the vehicle's frame or crossmember. Install the mounting bolts and tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque.


Image 3: An angled view of the Spicer 5017405 bearing, showcasing the durable metal bracket and the thick rubber housing that isolates the bearing from vehicle vibrations.

10. Reinstall Driveshaft Bolts: Reconnect the driveshaft to the differential flange and transmission output shaft, aligning the marks made in step 2. Install and torque all bolts to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
11. Final Checks: Ensure all bolts are tightened, and there is no interference with other components. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

Operating (Post-Installation Checks)

After installation, perform the following checks to ensure proper function:

• Visual Inspection: Verify that the driveshaft is properly aligned and secured, and that the center support bearing is correctly seated and bolted.
• Test Drive: Drive the vehicle at varying speeds to check for any unusual vibrations, noises, or handling characteristics. Pay attention to vibrations that might indicate an imbalance or misalignment.
• Re-torque Check: After approximately 50-100 miles of driving, re-check the torque on all driveshaft and center support bearing mounting bolts to ensure they remain secure.

Maintenance

The Spicer 5017405 center support bearing is designed for durability. Regular maintenance primarily involves inspection:

• Periodic Inspection: During routine vehicle maintenance, visually inspect the center support bearing for signs of wear, cracking in the rubber insulator, or excessive play in the bearing itself.
• Lubrication: The bearing itself is a sealed ball bearing and typically does not require external lubrication. However, if the driveshaft splines were lubricated during installation, ensure they remain adequately greased according to vehicle manufacturer recommendations. The compatible lubricant for the bearing is grease, referring to the internal pre-lubrication.


Image 4: A top-down view of the Spicer 5017405 bearing, showing the central bearing race and the surrounding rubber dampening material, which helps absorb driveshaft vibrations.

Troubleshooting

If you experience issues after installation, consider the following:

• Vibration:
  • Ensure driveshaft alignment marks were correctly matched during reassembly.
  • Check for proper torque on all driveshaft and bearing mounting bolts.
  • Inspect for any damage to the driveshaft itself or universal joints.
  • Verify the new bearing is fully seated and correctly oriented.
• Noise (e.g., humming, grinding):
  • Could indicate a faulty bearing or improper installation.
  • Check for interference between the driveshaft and other vehicle components.
  • Ensure the bearing is not binding or under excessive stress.
• Premature Wear:
  • Often caused by improper installation, misalignment, or external damage.
  • Verify that the correct part was installed for the specific vehicle application.

If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, consult a professional mechanic.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Specific warranty details for the Spicer 5017405 Dana Driveshaft Center Support Bearing are typically provided at the point of purchase or can be found on the official Spicer website. Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims. Warranty coverage generally applies to defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.

Support

For technical assistance, product inquiries, or support, please refer to the official Spicer website or contact their customer service department. When contacting support, please have your product model number (5017405) and purchase information readily available.

Official Spicer Website: www.spicerparts.com