2004 2500 Rear axle spindle nut tool

[BMandler]

Can anyone tell me what tool is needed to remove the rear axle spindle nut that holds on the hub on a 2004 2500 and where one can be obtained? I haven't removed the axle yet to see the nut and was hoping to have the tool lined up before I do that. I've seen different tools for this at places like Autozone and Advance Auto, but none say they are for Dodge trucks.



Thanks.

 

[jelag]

I've seen 2 types of nuts... first we need to assume that your axle has only one nut per side and not one nut locked to a second nut, (jam nut)

1 - has a small keeper pressed into the plastic insert in the nut that is pushed into a key slot on the spindle... you pull this keeper out with a needle nose pliers and just remove the nut with a socket... Upon installation you set the torque (preload) and push the keeper back into place...

2 - the second style has a spring loaded keeper... and the correct size socket, pressed into place and held there will push in the spring loaded keeper and will remove it. . Upon installation, you start the nut by hand until the keeper holds it... and now install the socket, pressing in the keeper... torque the nut (preload) and when you pull the socket off the keeper locks it in place...

in example 2, you can hold the keeper down and remove the nut without a socket...

I've seen all 3 examples on our trucks, and to be honest can't remember which is on which truck... . Hope this helps...

What I'm interested in, is why are you wanting to take this part... I've not yet had to do this to any of my current trucks listed below...

 

[dan.poitras]

Rear axle nut socket #8954 is available from Miller Tools (OTC / SPX division)

phone# 1-800-801-5420 as per the service manual

 

[BMandler]

Thanks for the reply. I'm embarassed to say why I need it. Basically a heavy-handed attempt to remove the rear rotor/drum resulted in damage to the e-brake backing plate so that has to be replaced.

 

[BMandler]

Dan, thanks for the reply also and the very specific reference. I learned after this post that the same six prong tool that works for GM axles will also work for American Axles as AA was a spin-off from GM and some parts are similar. So I may be able to get the tool from some place like Autozone for a lot less than the $87 at Miller Tools. But that certainly helps to confirm the other information I received. I have not yet ponied up for the factory service manual - sounds like something I need to do.

 

[Yo Hoot]

I know this is an old thread but I just did a rear hub seal on my 2004 2500. You do not need a socket. The design is full floater with tapered bearings that install just like the old days cars and trucks. The nut is basically loose. There is a retaining ring that retains a square key. The key slots are around the inside of the nut about every 30 degrees. You simply remove the thin snap (retaining) ring and that key slides out very easily. You take the nut off by hand, no tools. To reinstall you do like the old days, install the hub and bearings, Install the nut and as it starts getting tighter you spin the hub to help it evenly seat. Book says tighten to 22 ft lbs. That seats everything. Then you loosen the spindle nut back to the first alignment of the key and reinstall the retaining ring. I just used a screwdriver on the spindle nut as it has those outer cuts in it for the special tool you don't need. I tightened it pretty good with a hammer and the screwdriver, then backed it off.

 

[jim_r]

You can get the tools at https://www.moparessentialtools.com phone # 885-298-2687 if anybody is still looking for the item #8963A $47.30 for seal #8954A $106.70 for nut