Parts for your 1987 Suzuki Jimny-Driveshafts

1987 Suzuki Jimny Driveshafts

Driveshafts are absolutely fitted to the 1987 Suzuki Jimny (SJ410/SJ413/Samurai). The Suzuki factory service manual for SJ413/Samurai details front and rear propeller shafts running from the transfer case to each differential (Propeller Shaft section), and the Haynes Suzuki SJ410 & SJ413 manual also covers universal joints, slip joints and flange fasteners. The Suzuki electronic parts catalogues list these assemblies and their serviceable U-joints for the 1980s models, confirming their relevance on this vehicle.

On a ’87 Jimny, the driveshafts (often called prop shafts or tailshafts) take engine torque from the transfer case and feed it to the front and rear diffs. Universal joints and a sliding spline let the suspension articulate while keeping power delivery smooth. In 2H, only the rear shaft is doing the work, in 4H/4L, both shafts pull their weight off-road.

Looking after them is straightforward and pays off with fewer vibrations and better longevity. As part of regular servicing (say every 10,000 km, or after muddy/water crossings), it’s wise to:

• Grease each U-joint and the slip joint until fresh grease appears at the seals.
• Check flange bolts for tightness and any fretting marks, re-torque to the factory spec in the workshop manual.
• Inspect for dents, missing balance weights, or play at the yokes and splines.
• Make sure the shaft phasing is correct if it’s ever been removed.

Tell-tale signs it’s time for attention include a shudder under load, a metallic clunk on take-off, chirping that changes with speed, or grease flung around the floorpan. Any roughness when you articulate a U-joint by hand means replacement is due. When swapping U-joints, use quality, greasable units, seat the circlips fully, and keep needle rollers upright. Mark the shaft and yoke before removal so it goes back in the same orientation, and support the shaft to avoid stressing the joints.

Running a lift? The Jimny’s pinion angles and shaft phasing become critical. If you’ve got new vibrations post-lift, look at shims, adjustable perches, or a double-cardan front shaft. After any work, road test at a few speeds, then recheck fasteners. If a shaft’s been dinged or out of balance, a driveline specialist can straighten and balance it per the specifications noted in the Suzuki service literature.

Popular questions about 1987 Suzuki Jimny driveshafts

Can a 1987 Jimny be driven without the front driveshaft?
Yes, it can be driven in 2H without the front prop shaft as a temporary measure, since the rear shaft handles drive in two-wheel drive. You’ll obviously have no 4WD until it’s refitted, and it’s smart to cap or protect any exposed mating faces and ensure flange bolts aren’t left loose in the hub.

If the front shaft was removed due to vibration, sort the root cause (U-joints, balance, pinion angle or phasing) before refitting. Always tighten fasteners to workshop manual specs.

What causes new vibrations after lifting a Jimny?
Changes to pinion angle and driveshaft phasing are the usual culprits. When the axle rotates, the working angles at the U-joints become mismatched, creating a harmonic vibe under load or on coast.

Correct it with pinion shims, adjustable perches, or by converting to a double-cardan shaft where appropriate. Ensure the shaft is phased correctly and balanced if it’s been modified.

How often should the Jimny’s driveshafts be greased?
For mixed road use, grease the U-joints and slip joint about every 10,000 km or at each oil service. In off-road, muddy or water-heavy conditions, grease immediately after the trip to purge contamination.

Use a quality chassis grease, pump until clean grease appears, and wipe excess. Regular greasing aligns with the procedures outlined in the Suzuki workshop literature for SJ models.