Dakota 2WD V6-239 39L Magnum (1996) Front Axle Service Page 2798
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Axle Shaft: Service and Repair
Rear Halfshaft Replacement
Both rear wheels must be free to rotate off ground when working on rear axle. Do not rotate axle shaft in locking differential models unless both axles
are in place. Rotating with only one axle in place can cause side gears/splines to mis-align.
1. Raise and support vehicle, then remove wheel and brake drum.
2. Clean area around housing cover, then loosen housing cover and allow lubricant to drain. Remove cover.
Fig. 3 Differential Pinion Shaft Lockpin Removal
3. Turn differential case until pinion shaft lock screw is accessible, then remove lock screw and pinion shaft.
Fig. 4 C-lock Washer Removal
4. Push axle shaft in and remove C-clip lock from axle shaft, then pull axle shaft from housing being careful not to damage axle shaft bearing.
NOTE:
Inspect axle shaft bearing surfaces. If there is brinnelling, spalling or pitting shaft and bearing should be replaced. Normal bearing contact on
shaft should be dull gray and may appear lightly dented.
5. Pry off axle shaft seal, then remove axle shaft bearing using bearing removal tool No. C-4167 and slide hammer tool No. C-637, or equivalents.
NOTE:
Remove any burrs that may be present in housing bearing shoulder, as bearing could become cocked during installation.