Dakota 2WD V6-239 3.9L (1987)
Axle Bearing: Service and Repair
Rear Axle Service
Fig. 2 Differential pinion shaft lock pin
Fig. 3 Axle shaft C-lock removal
Fig. 4 Left side axle shaft removal
REMOVAL
1. Disconnect battery ground cable, then raise and support vehicle and remove axle shaft.
2. Loosen axle housing cover and allow lubricant to drain into suitable container.
3. Remove axle housing cover.
4. Rotate differential case until pinion shaft lock screw is accessible, then remove lock screw and pinion shaft.
5. Push axle shaft towards center of vehicle, then remove axle shaft C-lock.
6. Carefully pull axle shaft from housing, using caution not to damage axle bearing remaining in axle housing.
7. Inspect axle shaft for signs of damage. If damage is evident, replace shaft and bearing. Axle shaft may have a dull gray color and may appear
dented. This condition is considered normal.
8. Remove axle seal from housing bore.
9. Remove axle shaft bearing with tool C-4167 and suitable slide hammer and inspect for signs of damage. If bearing appears satisfactory, it can be
reused.
10. Inspect axle housing bearing bore for nicks and burrs. If present, they must be removed to prevent improper bearing installation.