Parts for your 2000 Nissan Navara-Driveshafts

2000 Nissan Navara driveshafts: what they do and how to look after them

Based on technical sources including the Nissan Navara D22 Workshop Manual (1997–2004), the Nissan FAST parts catalogue, and Gregory’s/Ellery’s service manuals, the 2000 Nissan Navara is fitted with driveshafts. Every 2WD D22 runs a rear tailshaft (propeller shaft) from the gearbox to the rear diff, while 4x4 models add a front prop shaft from the transfer case to the front diff plus CV halfshafts to each front wheel. So driveshafts are absolutely relevant on this ute.

On this Navara, the driveshafts carry torque from the transmission and transfer case to the diffs and then to the wheels. The rear tailshaft typically uses universal joints (uni joints) and a slip yoke, with many models also running a centre bearing on a two-piece shaft. The 4x4’s front end uses CV joints to allow steering and suspension travel without losing drive. When everything’s right, it’s smooth and quiet, when it’s not, you’ll feel vibrations, shudders on take-off, or hear clunks when shifting between drive and reverse.

As part of regular servicing, it pays to inspect the driveshafts every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service interval:

• Check uni joints and the slip yoke for play, red rust dust, or binding.
• Inspect CV boots for splits or grease fling on 4x4s, replace boots before CVs are damaged.
• Look for thrown balance weights, dented tubing, loose flange bolts, and a tired centre bearing.
• Note any vibrations at 80–100 km/h, or clunks on take-off—both are classic signs of wear.

When replacing parts, mark flanges so the tailshaft goes back in the same orientation to maintain balance. Use new flange bolts or thread locker, and torque to the workshop manual specification. If a shaft has been dinged off-road or shows persistent vibration, a specialist can straighten and re-balance it. Uni joints may be greasable (zerk fittings) on some variants, if so, give them a pump of quality grease at each service. Sealed-for-life joints should be replaced at the first sign of play or roughness. For high-kilometre 4x4s, preventative replacement of worn CVs and the centre bearing can save dramas on a long trip.

Does a 2WD 2000 Navara have front driveshafts?

No. The 2WD runs a single rear tailshaft to the rear differential. Only the 4x4 adds a front prop shaft from the transfer case to the front diff, plus CV halfshafts to each front wheel.

How can someone tell their Navara’s driveshafts are worn?

Common clues include a vibration that comes in around highway speeds, a shudder on take-off, or a clunk when shifting between drive and reverse. Under the ute, rust-coloured dust at a uni joint, split CV boots, or play at the slip yoke are all red flags.

Can the 2000 Navara’s uni joints be greased?

Many D22s have greasable uni joints with small zerk fittings, others are sealed. If fittings are present, grease them at each service. If they’re sealed and feel notchy or loose, replacement is the go.