Parts for your 2014 Isuzu D-max-Centre bearing

2014 Isuzu D‑MAX centre bearing: what it does and how to look after it

For the 2014 Isuzu D‑MAX, a centre (carrier) bearing is used on most Australian and New Zealand variants that run a two‑piece tailshaft. This is confirmed by the Isuzu D‑MAX TFR/TFS Workshop Manual (2012–2016, Driveline/Propeller Shaft section) and the Isuzu UTE electronic parts catalogue, both of which show a centre support bearing assembly on two‑piece prop shafts. Major driveline catalogues commonly used by local workshops (e.g., Hardy Spicer and SKF listings for 2012‑on D‑MAX) also specify a carrier bearing for these models. Some short‑wheelbase single‑cab utes may use a single‑piece shaft without a centre bearing, but dual‑cab and space‑cab vehicles typically have it fitted.

What’s the job of the centre bearing? It supports the middle of the two‑piece tailshaft, keeping everything running true between gearbox and rear diff. The rubber‑mounted carrier cushions vibration, helps the tailshaft hold the correct angle, and keeps noise down. Without it, a long single shaft can whip, drone or shudder under load—especially in a ute that tows, carries gear and sees plenty of corrugations.

• Common signs it’s tired: a shudder on take‑off, vibration at 40–80 km/h under load, a droning or rumbling that changes with throttle, and visible cracking or sag in the rubber mount.
• Other suspects to check at the same time: universal joints, tailshaft balance, engine/gearbox mounts and diff pinion angle (lifted 4x4s especially).

Servicing is straightforward. At regular services (every 10,000–20,000 km is a sensible look‑over window), the carrier bracket and rubber should be inspected for cracks, separation, or signs of the shaft sitting low. Spin the shaft with the rear wheels off the ground to feel for roughness. The bearing itself is sealed and not greasable, but many D‑MAX uni joints are—if grease nipples are fitted, hit them on schedule.

• When replacing, mark the tailshaft yokes to preserve phasing, torque the bracket correctly, and align the carrier so the shaft runs straight without pre‑load.
• If the rubber is torn or the bearing is noisy, replace the assembly and reassess uni joints and balance in one go—it saves doing the job twice.
• Lift kits alter driveline angles, a small carrier shim or angle correction may be needed to prevent repeat wear.

Looked after properly, a D‑MAX centre bearing often lasts well past 150,000 km, but heavy towing, big loads and outback roads can shorten that. Keeping vibration at bay protects not just comfort, but also the gearbox output, uni joints and diff pinion bearings.

• Does every 2014 D‑MAX have a centre bearing?
  Most dual‑cab and space‑cab models with a two‑piece tailshaft do. Some short‑wheelbase single‑cab 4x2 variants may run a single‑piece shaft without one. A quick under‑vehicle look (or a VIN check with a dealer) confirms what’s fitted.
• How long should a D‑MAX centre bearing last?
  Plenty make 150,000–250,000 km. Rough roads, heavy towing and altered driveline angles from suspension lifts can bring that forward. A regular inspection catches early wear before it snowballs.
• What happens if a worn centre bearing is ignored?
  Persistent shudder and vibration can chew out uni joints, flog gearbox/transfer case mounts, and stress the diff pinion bearing. Sorting the carrier bearing early is cheaper than chasing a whole‑driveline vibration later.