OEM 2002 Dodge Ram 3500 Van Axle Shaft

2002 Dodge Ram 3500 Van Axle Shaft Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to service the rear axle with an 8 1/4 axle shaft on 2002 Dodge Ram 3500 Van?

  A: Begin this service by setting the transmission to neutral and lifting the vehicle with support clamps. Take out the wheels and tires after that and then remove the brake caliper and rotor. Remove the lubricant from the housing after you're done with the cover. Turn the differential case over so you can get to the pinion shaft lock screw, remove the lock screw and pinion shaft. Turn the axle shaft inward to remove the axle shaft C-lock and then be careful not to scratch the shaft bearing or seal as you take out the shaft. Check around the axle shaft seal for fluid leaks and search the bearing surface for any brinelling, galling or pitting. Before installation, oil the bearing bore and seal lip and then pass the axle shaft through the seal and attaching it to the side gear splines without harming the seal lip. Place the C-lock onto the axle shaft and press it out until it fits in the side gear. After that, insert the pinion shaft into the differential case, place the thrust washers and differential pinions over it and make sure the hole in the shaft matches the hole in the case. Put the lock screw on the thread using Loctite and tighten it to a torque of 11 Nm (8 ft. lbs.). After installing the cover with gear lubricant to the fill plug hole, install next the brake drum, then the wheel and tire assembly. After that, release the support and slowly lower the vehicle to the ground.