Parts for your 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero-Driveshafts

1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Driveshafts — What They Do and How to Look After Them

Referencing Mitsubishi’s factory service material for the NH–NL series (1991–1999) — including Group 22A Propeller Shaft and the Front Axle/CV sections — plus the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue, the 1997 Pajero is definitely fitted with driveshafts. It runs a rear propeller shaft to the rear diff, a front propeller shaft to the front diff, and front CV half‑shafts on independent front suspension models. So yes, driveshafts are absolutely relevant on this model.

On a ’97 Pajero, the driveshafts transfer torque from the transfer case to the diffs (front and rear). Up front, CV half‑shafts carry that drive to the wheels, allowing for steering and suspension movement. Many long‑wheelbase variants use a two‑piece rear shaft with a centre bearing, while short‑wheelbase models are typically single piece. The system is built to cop outback kays, corrugations, and the odd beach run when looked after properly.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to:

• Inspect propeller shaft uni joints and the slip joint for play, rust bleed, and dried or flung grease.
• Check the rear centre bearing (if fitted) for torn rubber or rumbling.
• Look over CV boots for splits or grease spray, replace boots early to save the joint.
• Listen for tell‑tales: clunks on take‑off (unis), vibration at highway speeds (balance/uni/centre bearing), clicking on turns (front CVs).
• After water crossings or beach work, clean and re‑inspect sooner rather than later.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent tech: mark the flanges to keep phasing, crack the flange bolts, drop the shaft, and swap in new greasable uni joints or a complete shaft if needed. On re‑fit, align marks, use new hardware where specified, and torque to the factory spec from the Mitsubishi manual. If a shaft has been apart or feels out of balance, get it professionally balanced. For CVs, always use quality boots and correct moly CV grease, don’t skimp on clamps.

Service intervals vary with use, but checking the shafts at each oil service (10,000–15,000 km) is a good rule of thumb. Greasable uni joints and slip joints, if fitted, appreciate a hit of quality grease every service. Keeping on top of this gear saves you from road‑trip vibrations, driveline shudders, and bigger bills down the track.

Popular questions about 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero driveshafts

How do I know if my Pajero’s driveshaft or CV is failing?
Common signs include a clunk when selecting drive or taking off (often uni joints), a vibration that shows up at 80–100 km/h (balance, uni, or centre bearing), and clicking while turning at low speed (front CVs). Grease sprayed under the car or split boots are visual red flags. A quick underbody check during a service usually picks issues early.

Can I keep driving with a torn CV boot or a noisy uni joint?
You can, but it’s risky. A torn boot lets grit and water in, which quickly chews out the CV. A dry or loose uni joint can fail and cause collateral damage. If caught early, a boot and re‑grease or a single uni joint replacement is relatively inexpensive compared to a full shaft or diff repair.

Does the 1997 Pajero LWB have a centre bearing on the rear shaft?
Many long‑wheelbase (5‑door) NH–NL Pajeros run a two‑piece rear propeller shaft with a centre bearing, while short‑wheelbase versions are typically single‑piece. If yours hums under load or the rubber support looks cracked, the centre bearing may be due for replacement.