997 Drive Shaft Problem

[mtef]

While driving under normal conditions, I heard a noise coming from the right rear wheel. At first it sounded as if the tire had picked up a rock, but soon it turned into a louder sound as if something was hitting the inside of the fender well.

Upon inspection I found that one of drive shaft pan head screws (see picture) had come loose and was missing. As a result, the drive shaft retaining plate was held by only one screw instead of the two required. This caused the retainer plate to hit the body of the car thus producing the noise I heard.

The question: Is there any special instructions like torque requirements when re-installing the bolt and plate? The car was not driven much after the incident, but I would like to know if an alignment or other procedure are required after the installation of a new bolt and plate.

Thanks

[Loren]

Those should be M10 bolts - 60 ftlbs.

[mtef]

Those should be M10 bolts - 60 ftlbs.

Thanks for your reply. What about any other requirements beside putting the bolt and retainer? Alignment, or other?

Thanks again.

[Loren]

Well, I would look for any damage since it was loose.

If no damage then just tighten it down.

Odd that it came loose - any work done by a shop? Almost makes me think someone removed it to do work and forgot to tighten it back down when they reconnected it.

[wvicary]

If one was loose it's wise to check them all. Be sure to fit the socket deep into the bolt as the drive is easy to strip.

[mtef]

If one was loose it's wise to check them all. Be sure to fit the socket deep into the bolt as the drive is easy to strip.

Thanks for the responses. I ordered the parts today from my dealer. They should arrive before the weekend. I will give it a try by going DIY.

I found it interesting as well to find a bolt loose to the point of falling. It does not seem to have caused any damage. I bought the car used, so no idea about any past work done in that area.