3450A017 Center Bearing, Propeller Shaft For Mitsubishi TRITON L200

Product Description

Product Function Description

The propeller shaft center bearing is a critical component of your Mitsubishi Triton or L200‘s driveline system. For vehicles equipped with a two-piece propeller shaft, this bearing is mounted in the center of the shaft to support it and reduce vibration as it rotates. Its primary function is to support the shaft, control its angle, and keep everything running smoothly as the gearbox and rear differential move relative to each other . The rubber carrier cushions vibrations while the bearing itself allows the shaft to spin freely. For the Mitsubishi L200 and Triton, a properly functioning center bearing ensures smooth power delivery from the transmission to the rear wheels, reducing driveline vibration and noise .

 DIY Diagnosis Guide

How to Tell If Your Center Bearing Needs Replacement:

Look for these common signs:

1. Shudder on take-off – Vibration or shudder when accelerating from a stop, especially under load

2. Vibration at speed – Noticeable vibration between 40–80 km/h that eases when coasting

3. Clunk/thump – Clunking noise when selecting drive or on overrun

4. Visible damage – Cracks or sagging in the rubber support; excessive tailshaft movement near the center bracket

5. Droning noise – Droning vibration at certain speeds that changes with load

💡 Quick inspection: Safely raise the vehicle and visually inspect the center bearing rubber carrier for cracks, sagging, or separation. Check for excessive play by attempting to move the tailshaft near the center bracket. If the rubber is torn or the bearing has play, replacement is needed.

 Product Attributes

Installation Guidelines

Tools typically required:

• Socket wrench set (metric)

• Press tool (for bearing installation)

• Marking pen (for alignment marks)

• Safety gloves and eye protection

General installation reference (always follow vehicle-specific service manual):

Important:

• The bearing is a press-fit on the shaft; a workshop press is typically required for installation.

• Mark the tailshaft halves before removal to maintain correct phase alignment.

• Check universal joints and slip-yoke condition while the tailshaft is removed.

• If the center bearing failed due to misalignment or worn engine/gearbox mounts, address those issues as well.

• If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified mechanic.

 Installation Tips & Common Mistakes

The Mistake When Replacing a Center Bearing:

❌ Wrong: Failing to mark the tailshaft halves before removal, or not checking universal joints while the shaft is off.

✅ Correct:

1. Mark the tailshaft halves – This ensures proper phase alignment during reassembly, preventing vibration.

2. Support the shaft properly – Avoid damaging the new bearing during installation.

3. Don't mix up uni joint orientations – Maintain original orientation to avoid imbalance.

4. Check universal joints and slip-yoke splines – Worn components can cause premature bearing failure.

5. Address underlying issues – If misalignment or worn engine/gearbox mounts caused the failure, fix them too.

⚠️ Remember: Cheap, no-name bearings can be false economy. An OE-equivalent unit from a reputable supplier tends to last longer and run quieter.

Industry Knowledge

Mitsubishi L200/Triton Driveline & Center Bearing:

The Mitsubishi L200 (Triton in some markets) is a pickup truck with a two-piece tailshaft design on most models. A two-piece design is used because dual-cab and 4x4 models have a longer wheelbase, requiring a mid-shaft support to prevent vibration. Some short-wheelbase 2WD single cabs may have a one-piece tailshaft and therefore no center bearing.

Why Center Bearings Fail:

• Rubber degradation – The rubber carrier hardens, cracks, or sags with age, heat, and exposure to road contaminants

• Bearing wear – Normal wear and tear from continuous rotation and load

• Misalignment – Worn engine or transmission mounts can cause driveline misalignment, accelerating bearing wear

• Heavy use – Towing and off-road driving place additional stress on the center bearing

What to Check When Replacing:

• Universal joints – Check for play or roughness

• Slip-yoke splines – Check for wear or damage

• Engine and transmission mounts – Worn mounts can cause misalignment

• Tailshaft balance – If vibration persists after replacement, tailshaft balancing may be needed

Package Contents

• 1 × Center Bearing Assembly

• Protective packaging with part number label

Inspection & Maintenance Recommendations

The center bearing should be inspected regularly as part of routine driveline maintenance. It is not a scheduled replacement item like oil or filters, but it does wear with age, load, and off-road use.

Common indicators that the center bearing may need replacement:

Inspection Checklist:

• Visually inspect the rubber carrier for cracks, sagging, or separation.

• Check for excessive play in the bearing by attempting to move the tailshaft near the center bracket.

• Listen for clunking or knocking noises during test drive.

• Check universal joints and slip-yoke splines during service.

Maintenance Tips:

• Inspect the center bearing during routine servicing.

• Address any driveline vibrations promptly to prevent accelerated wear.

• If the center bearing failed due to misalignment or worn engine/gearbox mounts, address those issues too.

FAQ

Q1: What is the inner diameter of this bearing?
A1: The inner diameter is 30 mm.

Q2: Does every L200/Triton have a center bearing?
A2: Most do—dual-cab and 4x4 models generally run a two-piece tailshaft with a center bearing. Some short-wheelbase 2WD single cabs may have a one-piece tailshaft and no center bearing.

Q3: When should I replace the center bearing?
A3: There is no fixed interval. Many last over 150,000 km, but heavy towing and off-road use can shorten life. Replace when symptoms (shudder, vibration, clunk) or visible damage appear.

After-Sales Service & Warranty

This product is covered by our quality assurance. If you have any questions or issues regarding fitment or quality, please contact us and we will respond within 24 hours.

Related Product Recommendations

When replacing the center bearing on a Mitsubishi L200/Triton, it is often recommended to inspect and consider replacing the following related components at the same time.

Recommended Related Parts:

Universal Joint Kit / Cross Bearing Kit – The universal joints are located at each end of the propeller shaft. If the center bearing is worn, the U-joints may also be worn. Replace as needed.

Engine and Transmission Mounts – Worn mounts can cause driveline misalignment, leading to center bearing failure. Inspect and replace if needed.

Tailshaft Slip Yoke – The slip-yoke allows the tailshaft length to change as the suspension moves. Check spline condition and replace if worn.