Parts for your 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero-Driveshafts

1996 Mitsubishi Pajero driveshafts — what they do and how to look after them

Yes, driveshafts are absolutely fitted to the 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Pajero 1991–1999 Workshop/Service Manual (Propeller Shaft and Front Axle/CV Joint sections), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, and aftermarket manuals covering Super Select 4WD confirm the model uses front and rear propeller shafts (driveshafts) from the transfer case to the differentials, plus front CV halfshafts on independent front suspension models.

On a 1996 Pajero, the driveshafts carry torque from the transfer case to the front and rear diffs, letting the Super Select 4WD system do its thing on-road and off. The rear prop shaft feeds the solid rear axle, while the front prop shaft feeds the front diff, which then sends power through CV halfshafts to the wheels. If you’ve got a long-wheelbase model, the rear prop shaft may be a two-piece design with a centre support bearing, which is normal.

For servicing the 1996-mitsubishi-pajero driveshafts, a quick look every service interval (about 10,000 km or six months) is smart, especially after beach work, mud, or water crossings. Keep an eye out for these tell-tales:

• Clunks on take-off or when shifting from drive to reverse (often worn universal joints).
• Vibration at certain speeds or under load (could be U-joints, slip-yoke splines, or balance).
• Clicking on turns from the front (usually CV joint wear or split boots).
• Grease slung around the underbody or visible play at the joints.

Maintenance is simple: inspect U-joints for play or dryness and grease them if they’re the serviceable type, check the slip joint for smooth movement, inspect the centre bearing (if fitted) for noise or cracking, and make sure flange bolts are tight and not stretched. For CVs, keep the boots intact and replace them if cracked before water and grit wreck the joint.

When replacing a driveshaft, mark the flanges so it goes back in the same orientation, keep the yokes in phase, and torque the bolts to workshop spec with suitable threadlocker. If a shaft’s been off-road punished or shows denting or serious corrosion, a quality new or balanced exchange unit is the go. After refit, a short test drive to check for vibrations and a re-torque of the fasteners is good practice.

• Popular questions about 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero driveshafts

Does a 1996 Pajero have one or two driveshafts?
The Pajero has two propeller shafts: a front shaft from the transfer case to the front diff and a rear shaft to the rear diff. Many long-wheelbase versions use a two-piece rear shaft with a centre support bearing. Up front, power then goes through CV halfshafts to the wheels.

How do I know if my Pajero’s U-joints are worn?
Listen and feel for a clunk when selecting drive or reverse, or a shudder on take-off. A rhythmic vibration that changes with speed is common. With the vehicle safely supported, try to move the shaft at each yoke, any noticeable play usually means the joint’s done.

How often should driveshafts be serviced or greased?
Inspect every service or after heavy off-road or water use. Grease any serviceable U-joints and slip joints at those intervals. If your Pajero’s joints are sealed-for-life types, focus on inspection and replace at the first sign of wear.