Manually rotate drive shaft?

GCONDIE

MEMBER
2018 LEXUS LC
5.2L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
43,000 MILES

I need to disconnect and remove the drive shaft. I have the repair manual and there are three bolts on each end that need to be removed. On each end, one of the bolts is on the top side and I’m not able to get to it. How can I manually rotate the drive shaft so that I can access all six bolts?

Thank you.

Saturday, January 18th, 2025 AT 9:35 AM

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
49,970 POSTS

Sure, you need to put the transmission in neutral while the rear of the car is in the air. Please have the car on level ground. You will need to locate the shift lock release.

Locate the Shift Lock Release:

Look near the shifter for a small cover or slot labeled "Shift Lock."
Use a flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry off the cover.

You should be able to rotate the shaft, (Parking brake off). Here is a guide to help as well to help raise the car up:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/jack-up-and-lift-your-car-safely

You will need to collapse the slip joint on the driveshaft to remove it FYI. Check out the images (below). Please upload pictures or videos in your response of any problems so we can see what to help you with.

Image (Click to make bigger)

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Saturday, January 18th, 2025 AT 1:01 PM

GCONDIE

MEMBER
5 POSTS

Thank you, Ken. I don't have power to the car so I'm not able to easily release the parking brake since it is electric. Using some creativity, I was able to get the drive shaft off without turning it. Thank you for your reply.

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Monday, January 20th, 2025 AT 7:00 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
49,970 POSTS

Good to hear, please use 2CarPros anytime we are here to help.

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Tuesday, January 21st, 2025 AT 10:35 AM

Manually rotate drive shaft?

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