Parts for your 1998 Nissan Navara-Driveshafts

1998 Nissan Navara Driveshafts — What They Do and How to Look After Them

Driveshafts are absolutely fitted to the 1998 Nissan Navara. Technical references including the Nissan D22 Navara Service Manual (1997–2004) list a rear propeller shaft for 2WD models and, on 4WD variants, both a front propeller shaft from the transfer case to the front differential and front drive shafts (CV half-shafts). These assemblies are covered in the manual’s Propeller Shaft and Front Axle/CV Joint sections, and corresponding Nissan parts catalogues show complete shaft assemblies, universal joints, centre support bearings and CV joints for D22 vehicles. So yes—this ute uses driveshafts to get torque from the gearbox and transfer case to the diffs.

On a 1998 Navara, the driveshafts transfer engine power to the wheels while allowing suspension movement and steering (at the front on 4WDs). The rear prop shaft uses universal joints (uni joints) and, on some wheelbases, a centre bearing to keep things smooth. 4WD models add a front prop shaft and CV half-shafts that handle steering angles without binding. When everything’s healthy, the result is quiet, vibe-free cruising and strong take-offs—on-road and off the beaten track.

As part of routine servicing, it pays to give the driveshafts a once-over every 10,000–15,000 kilometres, or after beach work and water crossings. Check for play in the uni joints, torn CV boots, slung grease, leaking diff or transfer case flanges, and any dents in the tubes. If your D22 has a two-piece rear shaft, inspect the centre support bearing for perished rubber or wobble. Where grease nipples are fitted, give them a pump with quality lithium complex or moly grease, many later replacement joints are sealed, so visual checks become even more important.

Common signs the Navara’s driveshafts need attention include:

• Vibration or shudder under load or at highway speeds
• Clunk on take-off or when shifting from drive to reverse
• Clicking on turns (front CVs), or grease flung around a wheel arch
• Driveline drone and rubbery thump (centre bearing)

Replacement is straightforward with the right approach. Mark flange orientations before removal to keep phasing correct. Use new flange bolts and torque them to the factory spec. If fitting a new rear shaft, match length and spline count to body style and wheelbase, D22 2WD and 4WD shafts differ, and long-bed utes often use a centre-bearing setup. For CVs, pick quality units with OE-style boots and clamps, and verify left/right fitment. After any driveline work, road-test for vibration and recheck fasteners. Regular inspection and prompt replacement of worn uni joints, centre bearings and CVs will keep this Navara happy through corrugations and coastal missions alike.

Popular questions about 1998 Nissan Navara driveshafts

How can an owner tell if the uni joints are worn on a D22?
They’ll often feel a vibration that rises with road speed, plus a clunk when selecting drive or releasing the clutch. With the ute parked and safely chocked, rotating the shaft by hand while checking for free play at each uni is a giveaway. Any rust-coloured dust near the caps or binding through movement means it’s time to replace.

Is it safe to drive with a noisy centre bearing or clicking CV?
Short distances at low speed might be possible, but it’s not recommended. A failing centre bearing or uni can escalate to a full vibration that risks damaging the gearbox or diff flanges. A clicking CV can let go under load, especially off-road. It’s cheaper—and safer—to repair before it fails.

What’s different between 2WD and 4WD driveshafts on a 1998 Navara?
The 2WD uses a single rear prop shaft (sometimes two-piece with a centre bearing). The 4WD adds a front prop shaft to the front diff and a pair of front CV half-shafts. Lengths, flanges and spline counts vary by wheelbase and drivetrain, so parts should be matched to VIN and build spec.