Q: How to remove and install the rear and front Drive Shaft on 2005 through 2009 Toyota Tacoma?
A: Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands, placing the transmission in Neutral with the parking brake off, and block the front wheels to prevent rolling. Make matchmarks on the driveshaft and the differential flange to ensure proper reinstallation for balance. Remove the bolts securing the flange yoke to the rear differential, using a backup wrench to hold each bolt while breaking loose all four nuts. If equipped, remove the center bearing protector and the bolts from the center support bearing. Lower the rear of the driveshaft, sliding the front out of the transmission on 2WD models or separating the flange at the transfer case on 4WD models, marking the relationship of the driveshaft U-joint flange yoke to the companion flange. For 2WD models, wrap a plastic bag over the transmission extension housing to prevent fluid loss and contamination. After removing the plastic bag and cleaning the area, slide the front of the driveshaft into the transmission for 2WD models or bolt the U-joint flange yoke to the companion flange for 4WD models, installing fasteners finger-tight. Raise the center bearing into place and screw the retaining bolts in a few turns, then raise the rear of the driveshaft into position, ensuring the marks are aligned, adjusting as necessary. Tighten all fasteners to the specified torque. For 4WD models, remove the exhaust pipe assembly and any skid plates or splash shields, marking the relationship of the driveshaft to the front differential and transfer case companion flanges. Remove the nuts, bolts, and washers from the differential and transfer case companion flanges to take out the front driveshaft. To install, attach the front end of the driveshaft to the front differential companion flange and install the nuts and bolts finger-tight, then extend or compress the driveshaft as necessary to attach the rear end to the transfer case flange, installing washers, nuts, and bolts, tightening them to the specified torque. Finally, reinstall the skid plate or splash shields, remove the jackstands, and lower the vehicle.