Replacing the Rear Driveline

[KMyrick]

Has anyone replaced their rear driveline? If so, what are you suggestions and are there any special tools required?

 

[Prairie Dog]

No special tools. Just remove the 4 bolts at the diff, then remove the two nuts retaining the center bearing and pull the shaft out of the trans. The whole thing takes less than 10 minutes. If your seperating the two halves, make sure you mark them so you keep them in-sync.

One helpfull thing I've found is to use a very large ziptie or tie wrap to secure the two shafts together at the center slipjoint. This keeps you from stressing the rubber boot and tearing it. Of course if your just a little bit carefull that step isn't critical but I like the extra added insurance. I believe the torque spec is 40 pound-feet for the center carrier nuts and 85 lbft for the 4 bolts at the rearend.

 

[F-15I Ra'am]

Also make sure and block your front wheels so the truck doesnt roll.

 

[KMyrick]

Thanks guys! I ordered the driveline yesterday and should be here by Monday. I am glad this is a simple job to do!

 

[Prairie Dog]

Why did you change it out? Did you go with a one-piece?

 

[EricBu12]

Glad my new 09 has a 1-piece. . The thing is very big!. . About a 1/3 larger diameter it think.

 

[KMyrick]

I am changing it out with the same kind that is already in place, because it appears to be the source of that annoying vibration that occurs around 55 and 70 MPH. I took it to the Dodge Dealer in Billings and they put it up on the rack and let it run. The drive line had a good wobble to it, and they suggested replacing the driveline.

 

[KMyrick]

P Dog,



Thanks for the help on the driveline issue. I just replaced mine using your directions. The truck runs like a new truck. The annoying vibration has gone away and the job took me only two hours to do (never done it before).



Thanks again,



Kyle