RAM 2500 Truck 2WD L6-359 5.9L DSL Turbo VIN D FI (1997)
Seals and Gaskets: Service and Repair
Rear Axle - 248 or 267RBI
REMOVAL
1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Scribe a mark on the universal joint, pinion yoke, and pinion shaft for reference.
3. Disconnect the propeller shaft from the pinion yoke. Secure the propeller shaft in an upright position to prevent damage to the rear universal joint.
4. Remove the wheel and tire assemblies.
5. Remove the brake drums to prevent any drag. The drag may cause a false bearing preload torque measurement.
6. Rotate the pinion yoke three or four times.
7. Measure the amount of torque necessary to rotate the pinion gear with a (inch lbs.) dial-type torque wrench. Record the torque reading for
installation reference.
8. Hold the yoke with Wrench 6719, or equivalent. Remove the pinion shaft nut and washer.
9. Remove the yoke with Remover C-452, or equivalent.
10. Remove the pinion shaft seal with suitable pry tool or slide-hammer mounted screw.
INSTALLATION
1. Clean the seal contact surface in the housing bore.
2. Examine the splines on the pinion shaft for burrs or wear. Remove any burrs and clean the shaft.
3. Inspect pinion yoke for cracks, worn splines and worn seal contact surface. Replace yoke if necessary.
NOTE: The outer perimeter of the seal is pre-coated with a special sealant. An additional application of sealant is not required.
4. Apply a light coating of gear lubricant on the lip of pinion seal.
5. Install the new pinion shaft seal with Installer 8108 and Handle 4171, or equivalents.
NOTE: The seal is correctly installed when the seal flange contacts the face of the differential housing flange.
6. Position the pinion yoke on the end of the shaft with the reference marks aligned.
7. Seat yoke on pinion shaft with Installer C-3718 and Wrench 6719.
8. Remove the tools and install the pinion yoke washer and nut.
CAUTION: Do not exceed the minimum tightening torque when installing the pinion yoke retaining nut at this point. Damage to collapsible
spacer, if equipped, or bearings may result.
