Rear propshaft 304-3269 CAT, aftermarket, option 1

Rear propshaft 304-3269 is an aftermarket part for the Caterpillar backhoe loaders. This shaft drives the rear axle.

The propshaft carries torque from the transmission to the pinion of the front or rear axle. The universal joints at its ends keep the drive smooth as the angle changes, while the sliding splined section takes up changes in length. Worn joints or splines cause clunks when moving off and changing direction, vibration at certain speeds and leaks at the transmission and axle seals.

Specifications

Compatibility

According to sources, 304-3269 is the rear propshaft assembly of Caterpillar backhoe loaders; the product cards also give 216-4473 and 216-4475. The catalogue also has the aftermarket version of this part. Other parts are in Axle shafts, propshafts and U-joints.

Fitting

Before the change, park the machine on level ground, apply the parking brake and chock the wheels. Support the shaft while undoing the flange bolts; fit the new shaft with the marks on the sliding section aligned and tighten the flange bolts to the specified torque. After fitting, grease the joints and splines and drive at low speed to check for vibration. The shaft comes new; clean the flange faces before fitting and check the marks on the sliding section.