RAM 50 2WD L4-156 2556cc 2.6L VIN 7 2-bbl (1983)
Axle Shaft: Service and Repair
Conventional Fixed/Floating Axle Shaft
Axle Assembly Removal and Installation
EXC. MODELS EQUIPPED WITH INDEPENDENT REAR SUSPENSION
1. Raise vehicle and support at frame. Support rear axle with a suitable jack.
2. Remove wheels and propeller shaft. Place matching mark on propeller shaft flange yoke and companion yoke for reassembly.
3. Disconnect brake hose from brake line.
4. Disconnect parking brake cable from both wheels and remove the parking brake cable lever on axle housing.
5. Remove shock absorbers.
6. Remove coil springs (if so equipped) or leaf springs as outlined.
7. If equipped with coil springs, remove lower control arm, assist link and upper control arm.
8. Remove rear axle assembly from vehicle.
9. Reverse procedure to install.
Axle Shaft Removal and Installation
Fig. 1 Rear axle shaft assembly exploded view. Ram 50 & Ram Raider
REMOVAL
1. Raise and support rear of vehicle, then remove rear wheel and brake drum.
2. Disconnect rear parking brake cable at equalizer and remove cable retaining bolts and heat shields as needed.
3. Disconnect brake tube from wheel cylinder and plug line and open fitting.
4. Remove 4 nuts securing bearing case, then remove axle shaft, bearing case and brake backing plate as an assembly. Use suitable slide hammer, if
necessary, to free assembly from axle housing.
5. Remove O-ring and shims for preloading bearing. Retain shims for reassembly.