Dakota Quad Cab 2WD V8-5.9L VIN Z LDC (2002)
Axle Shaft: Service and Repair
Rear Axle - 8 1/4
Axle Shaft
Removal and Installation - Rear Axle Shaft 8 1/4 inch
REMOVAL
1. Place transmission in neutral and raise and support vehicle.
2. Remove wheel and tire assembly.
3. Remove brake drum.
4. Remove differential cover and drain lubricant.
5. Rotate differential case to access the pinion shaft lock screw. Remove lock screw and pinion shaft from differential case (Fig. 20).
6. Push axle shaft inward then remove axle shaft C-lock (Fig. 21).
7. Remove axle shaft being careful not to damage shaft bearing and seal.
8. Inspect axle shaft seal for leakage or damage.
9. Inspect axle shaft bearing contact surface for signs of brinelling, galling and pitting.
INSTALLATION
1. Lubricate bearing bore and seal lip with gear lubricant. Insert axle shaft through seal, bearing and engage it into side gear splines.
NOTE: Use care to prevent shaft splines from damaging axle shaft seal lip.
