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    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

    CONTENTS

    page page

    7 1/4 INCH FRONTAXLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31AXLE SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47CVDRIVESHAFT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23FRONT SUSPENSION2WD VEHICLES . . . . . . . 8FRONT SUSPENSION4WD VEHICLES . . . . . . 14

    GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1SERVICE DIAGNOSIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47WHEEL ALIGNMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

    GENERAL INFORMATION

    FRONT SUSPENSION

    Dakota front suspensions are comprised of (Fig 1,2);

    Frame mounted drive axle with CV drive shafts

    (4WD) Steering knuckles Stabilizer bar Suspension arms Coil springs (2WD) Torsion-bar springs (4WD) Dual-action shock absorbers J ounce bumpers (used to limit the travel of thesuspension)

    The front suspension is designed to allow eachwheel to adapt to different road surfaces indepen-

    dently. The wheels are mounted to hubs that ride on

    tapered bearings on the steering knuckle spindle. On2WD vehicles, the bearings can be removed for ser-vice, adjustment, repacking, replacement, etc. 4WDvehicles use a hub/bearing design that is not service-able and is replaced as a unit. The steering knucklesturn (pivot) on replaceable ball studs mounted on theupper and lower suspension arms.

    The upper suspension arms use a cross shaft boltedto the frame rail brackets. The cross shaft isolates

    Fig. 1 Front Suspension 2WD

    Fig. 2 Front Suspension 4WD

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 1

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    road noise by the use of replaceable bushings i n the

    suspension arms. The upper suspension arm cross

    shaft also allows for caster and camber adjustment.

    The lower suspension arms use replaceable pressed

    in bushings to isolate road noise. The suspension

    arms are bolted to the frame and pivot through rub-

    ber bushings. The suspension arm travel (jounce or

    rebound) is limited through the use of rubberbumpers.

    Al l suspension components that use rubber bush-

    ings should be tightened with the vehicle at normal

    height. I f springs are not at their normal ride posi-

    tion, vehicle ride comfort could be affected along with

    premature rubber bushing wear. Rubber bushings

    must never be lubri cated.

    Vehicles equipped with 2WD use coil springs

    mounted up in a well (pocket) in a bracket that is

    part of the frame rail. There is a rubber (doughnut)

    isolator between the top of the spring and bracket.

    The bottom of the spring seats in the lower suspen-sion arm.

    4WD vehicles use torsion bars mounted to the back

    side of the lower suspension arm. The rearward end

    of the bar i s mounted in a cam pivot that rests in the

    frame crossmember. The vehicle height is adjusted

    through the cams with screw jacks that increase the

    tension (twist) of the torsion bar.

    Ride control i s accomplished through the use of du-

    al-action shock absorbers. The shocks dampen the

    jounce and rebound as the vehicle travels over vari-

    ous road conditions. The top of the shock absorbers

    are bolted to the frame. T he bottom of the shocks are

    bolted to the lower suspension arm.

    The stabili zer bar is used to minimize vehicle front

    sway during turns. T he bar helps to maintain a flat

    attitude to the road surface. The bar extends across

    the front underside of the chassis and connects to the

    frame rails. The links are connected to the lower sus-

    pension brackets. All mounting points of the stabi-

    li zer bar are isolated by rubber bushings.

    FRONT DRIVE AXLEThe integral type housing, hypoid gear design has

    the centerline of the pinion set below the centerline

    of the ring gear.The power is transferred from the axle through two

    constant velocity (CV) drive shafts to the wheel hubs.The drive shafts are identical and interchangeable.

    The 7 1/4 inch axle housings consist of a cast ironcenter section. The axle also has two steel axle shafttubes that are pressed into and welded to the differ-ential housing.

    The cover provides a means for inspection and ser-vice without removing the axle from the vehicle.

    A small, stamped metal axle gear ratio identifica-tion tag is attached to the housing cover (Fig. 3).

    The axle has a fitting for a vent hose used to re-

    lieve internal pressure caused by lubricant vaporiza-

    tion and internal expansion.

    STANDARD DIFFERENTIAL OPERATION

    The differential gear system divides the torque be-tween the axle shafts. I t allows the axle shafts to ro-tate at different speeds when turni ng corners.

    Each differential side gear is splined to an axleshaft. The pinion gears are mounted on a pinion

    mate shaft and are free to rotate on the shaft. Thepinion gear is fitted in a bore in the differential caseand is positioned at a right angle to the axle shafts.

    I n operation, power flow occurs as follows: The pinion gear rotates the r ing gear The ring gear (bolted to the differential case) ro-tates the case The differential pinion gears (mounted on the pin-ion mate shaft in the case) rotate the side gears The side gears (splined to the axle shafts) rotatethe shafts

    During straight-ahead driving, the differential pin-ion gears do not rotate on the pinion mate shaft. T his

    occurs because input torque applied to the gears isdivided and distributed equally between the two sidegears. As a result, the pinion gears revolve with thepinion mate shaft but do not rotate around it (Fig. 4).

    When turning corners, the outside wheel musttravel a greater distance than the inside wheel in or-der to complete a turn. This difference must be com-pensated for in order to prevent the wheels fromscuffing and skidding through the turn. To accom-plish this, the differential becomes effective allowingthe axle shafts to turn at unequal speeds (Fig. 5). I nthis instance, the input torque applied to the pinion

    Fig. 3 Differential Cover 7 1/4 Inch Axle

    2 - 2 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    gears i s not divided equally. T he pinion gears now ro-tate around the pinion mate shaft in opposite direc-tions. This allows the side gear and axle shaft

    attached to the outside wheel to rotate at a faster

    speed.

    Fig. 4 Differential OperationStraight-Ahead Driving

    Fig. 5 Differential OperationOn Turns

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 3

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    WHEEL ALIGNMENT

    INDEX

    page page

    Alignment Measurements and Adjustments . . . . . . . 4General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

    Pre-Alignment Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

    GENERAL INFORMATIONFront wheel alignment involves the correct posi-

    tioning of the tire contact patch in relation to the

    pavement. The positioning is accomplished through

    the suspension and steering linkage adjustments. An

    alignment is considered essential maintenance. I t

    will maintain efficient steering, good directional sta-

    bility and prevent abnormal tire wear. The most im-portant factors of front end alignment are camber,caster and toe position.

    Routine inspection of the front suspensionand steering components is a good preventativemaintenance practice. Inspection also helps toensure safe operation of the vehicle. CAM BE R is the number of degrees the top of thewheel is tilted either inward or outward. An exces-sive negative camber angle will cause tread wear atthe inside of the tire. An excessive positive camberangle will cause tread wear at the outside of the tir e(Fig. 1). CASTER is the number of degrees of forward orrearward tilt of the steering knuckles. Forward tiltprovides a negative caster angle. Rearward til t pro-

    vides a positive caster angle (Fi g. 1). WHEEL TOE POSITI ON is the difference betweenthe leading inside edges and trailing inside edges ofthe front tires (Fi g. 1). Incorrect wheel toe position isthe most common cause of unstable steeri ng and un-even tire wear. The wheel toe position is the finalfront wheel alignment adjustment. STEERING AXIS INCLINATION ANGLE is mea-sured in degrees and is the angle that the steeringknuckles are tilted (Fig. 1). The inclination angle hasa fixed relationship with the camber angle. T his an-gle will not change except when a spindle or ball

    stud is damaged or bent. The angle i s not adjustableand the damaged component(s) must be replaced tocorrect mis-alignment.

    CAUTION: Do not attempt to modify any suspen-

    sion or steering component by heating and bend-ing.

    PRE-ALIGNMENT INSPECTIONBefore starting a front wheel alignment, the follow-

    ing inspection and necessary corrections must becompleted.

    (1) Ti res with the same recommended air pressure,

    size, and tread wear. Refer to Group 22, Tires And

    Wheels for diagnosis information.

    (2) Front wheel bearings for wear or adjustment.

    (3) Ball studs and linkage pivot points, steering

    gear for looseness, roughness, binding or a sticking

    condition. Refer to Group 19, Steering for additionalinformation.

    (4) Front wheels for excessive radial, lateralrunout and unbalance. Refer to Group 22, Tires AndWheels for diagnosis information.

    (5) Suspension components for wear and noise.Check components for correct torque. Refer to Groups2 and 3, Suspension and Axle for additional informa-tion.

    ALIGNMENT MEASUREMENTS AND

    ADJUSTMENTSBefore each alignment reading the vehicle should

    be jounced (rear first, then front). Grasp each

    Fig. 1 Wheel Alignment Measurements

    2 - 4 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    SUSPENSION AND STEERING SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 5

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    bumper at the center and jounce the vehicle up and

    down several times. Always release the bumper when

    it is at the down position. Set the front end align-

    ment to specifications while the vehicle is in its

    NORMALLY LOADED CONDITION.

    SUSPENSION HEIGHT (4WD)

    The front suspension of a new vehicle will settleslightly during the first 2,000 miles/3,200 km of op-

    eration. To compensate for this, the front suspension

    height is slightly higher than the service specification

    height. A vehicle with less than 2,000 miles/3,200

    km, SHOU L D NOT be adjusted downward. T he tor-

    sion bars have not set and can be no more than 0.5

    inch (12.7 mm) higher than specifications.

    (1) Clean the surface areas where the suspension

    arm height will be measured (Fig. 2).

    (2) Measure the suspension arm height according

    to the following instructions:

    I nner measurementfrom the floor surface to the

    underside of the pivot bores between the webs (Fi g.

    2)

    Outer measurementfrom the floor surface to the

    underside of the rear edge inboard of the steering

    stop (Fig. 2)

    (3) The height of each front suspension arm is ad-

    justed by turning the torsion bar adjustment bolt

    (Fig. 3). CL OCKWI SE to raise the vehicle

    COUNT ERCL OCKWI SE to lower the vehicle

    (4) After each adjustment, jounce the vehicle be-

    fore measuring to determine the effects of the adjust-

    ment.

    The suspension arm heights at both sides of

    the vehicle must be measured even if only one

    side was adjusted.

    (5) The difference in height between the inner and

    outer measurement should be 1.50 inch (38.00 mm)

    plus or minus 1/4 inch (6.4 mm). The side-to-side

    height difference should not be more than 0.25 inch

    (6.4 mm).

    CAMBER AND CASTER ADJUSTMENT

    Camber and caster angle adjustments involvechanging the position of the upper suspension arm

    pivot bar (Fig. 4).

    CASTER: Move only the rear position of the pivot

    bar in or out. This wil l change the caster angle sig-

    nificantly and camber angle only slightly. To retain

    the camber while adjusting caster, move the rear

    pivot bar in or out. Move the forward pivot very

    slightly in the opposite direction.

    For example, to increase a positive caster an-

    gle, move the rear position of the pivot bar in-

    ward (toward the engine). Move the front of

    Fig. 2 Height Measurement (4WD)

    Fig. 3 Suspension Arm Height Adjustment

    Fig. 4 Caster & Camber Adjustment Location

    2 - 6 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    pivot bar outward (away from the engine)slightly until the original camber angle is ob-tained.

    CAMBER: Move only the forward position of thepivot bar in or out. This will change the camber an-gle significantly and caster angle only slightly. Thecamber angle should be adjusted as close as possible

    to the service reset specification.After adjustment is made tighten the pivot barnuts to 210 Nm (155 ft. lbs.) torque.

    TOE POSITION

    The wheel toe position adjustment should be the fi-nal adjustment.

    (1) Start the engine and turn wheels both ways be-fore straightening the wheels. Secure the steeringwheel with the front wheels in the straight-ahead po-sition.

    (2) L oosen the tie rod adjustment sleeve clampbolts/nuts.

    Each front wheel should be adjusted for one-half of the total toe position specification. Thiswill ensure the steering wheel will be centeredwhen the wheels are positioned straight-ahead.

    29(3) Adjust the wheel toe position by turning the tie

    rod adjustment sleeves as necessary (Fig. 5, 6).(3) Tighten the tie rod adjustment:

    2WD: locknuts to 75 Nm (55 ft. lbs.) torque 4WD: clamp bolts to 23 Nm (17 ft. lbs.) torque.Position the clamp nut/bolt so that it does notextend above the top of the sleeve

    FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS

    Fig. 5 Toe Adjustment (2WD)

    Fig. 6 Toe Adjustment (4WD)

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 7

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    FRONT SUSPENSION2WD VEHICLES

    INDEX

    page page

    Coil Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Lower Ball Stud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Lower Suspension Arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Shock Absorber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

    Stabilizer Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Steering Knuckle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Upper Ball Stud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Upper Suspension Arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Wheel Hub and Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

    SERVICEINFORMATIONPeriodic lubrication of the front suspension (steer-

    ing) system components is required. Refer to Group

    0, L ubrication And Maintenance for the recom-

    mended maintenance schedule.

    CAUTION: Suspension components with rubber

    bushings should be tightened with the vehicle at

    normal height. It is important to have the springs

    supporting the weight of the vehicle when the fas-

    teners are torqued. If springs are not at their normal

    ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affectedand premature bushing wear may occur. Rubberbushings must never be lubricated.

    WHEEL HUB AND BEARINGS

    REMOVAL

    (1) Block brake pedal in up position.(2) Raise and support the vehicle.(3) Remove the wheel and ti re.

    (4) Remove disc brake caliper from steering

    knuckle and rotor. Refer to Group 5, Brakes.

    (5) Remove the dust cap, cotter pin, and remaining

    hub components from spindle (Fig. 1).

    CAUTION: Use care to prevent inner wheel bearing

    and seal from contacting spindle threads during re-

    moval (Fig. 1).

    (6) Carefully slide the hub/rotor from spindle (F ig.

    1).

    (7) Remove the seal and inner wheel bearing from

    the hub/rotor (Fig. 1). Remove the inner bearing

    races from hub/rotor with a pin punch.

    CLEANING AND INSPECTION

    (1) Thoroughly clean bearings and i nterior of hub/rotor (Fig. 1).

    (2) To clean the bearings: Soak them in cleaning solvent Strike the flat of each bearing against a hardwoodblock several times

    Fig. 1 Brake Rotor/Hub and Wheel Bearings

    2 - 8 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    I mmerse each bearing i n cleaning solvent between

    strikes to loosen and flush lubricant from interior of

    the bearing

    Repeat procedure above until each bearing is clean

    Dry bearings with compressed air but do not spin

    them

    (3) After cleaning, apply engine oil to each bearing.

    (4) Rotate each bearing slowly while applyingdownward force. Examine the r ollers for pitting and

    roughness, replace bearing if worn or defective.

    (5) Remove the engine oil from each bearing. Pack

    each bearing with multi-purpose NLGI, grade 2, EP-

    type lubricant (or an equivalent lubricant). Place

    bearings in a clean, safe place.Ensure that lubricant is forced into all the

    cavities between the bearing cage and rollers.

    INSTALLATION

    (1) I nstall the new bearing cup(s) with an appro-priate installation tool.

    (2) Apply a coating of MOPAR Wheel BearingGrease (or an equivalent lubricant) to entire innersurface area of hub/rotor. I nstall inner wheel bearingin the hub/rotor. I nstall a new bearing seal.

    (3) I nspect bearing and seal contact surfaces onspindle for burrs and/or roughness.

    (4) Remove all rough contact surfaces from spindle.Apply a coating of lubricant.

    CAUTION: Use care to prevent inner wheel bearingand seal from contacting spindle threads during in-stallation (Fig. 1).

    (5) Carefully slide the hub/rotor onto spindle (Fig.1). I nstall outer wheel bearing, washer and retainingnut.

    (6) Tighten the nut to 41-54 Nm (30-40 ft. lbs.)torque to preload bearing while rotating the hub/ro-tor. Stop hub/rotor and loosen nut to completely re-lease bearing preload torque. Ti ghten the nut finger-tight and install the nut lock. I nstall a new cotterpin.

    (7) The adjustment (above) should have 0 to 0.076mm (0 to 0.003 in.) end play.

    (8) Clean the dust cap and apply a coating lubri-cant to the i nternal surface. Do not fill the dustcap with lubricant. I nstall the cap.

    (9) I nstall disc brake caliper. Refer to Group 5,Brakes.

    (10) I nstall the wheel and ti re.

    SHOCKABSORBER

    REMOVAL

    (1) Remove the hardware from the shock absorberstud (Fig. 2).

    (2) Raise the vehicle, remove the lower bolts andremove the shock absorber (Fig. 2).

    INSTALLATION(1) I nstall the lower retainer and grommet on the

    shock absorber stud. I nsert the replacement shock

    absorber through the fr ame hole. I nstall the lowerbolts (Fig. 2).

    (2) Tighten the bolts to 23 Nm (17 ft. lbs./200 in.lbs.) torque.

    (3) I nstall the upper grommet and retainer on theshock absorber stud (F ig. 2). I nstall the bayonet nutand tighten to 41 Nm (30 ft. lbs.) torque.

    STABILIZER BAR

    REMOVAL(1) Raise and support the vehicle.(2) Remove the nut and washer from the stabilizer

    bar link bolt at the lower suspension arm on eachside of the vehicle (Fig. 3).

    (3) Remove the link bolt, retainers, insulators andspacer from each lower suspension arm (Fig. 3).

    (4) Remove the bolts from the U-shaped retainer.Remove the retainer, and stabilizer bar from the ve-hicle (Fig. 3).

    (5) I f necessary, remove the bushings from the sta-bilizer bar (Fig. 3).

    Fig. 2 Front Shock Absorber2WD

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 9

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    INSTALLATION

    (1) I f removed, install the bushings on the stabi-

    lizer bar (Fig. 3).Ensure the stabilizer bushings are pre-

    aligned before the bar is installed to the

    bracket.

    (2) Pl ace the stabilizer bar adjacent to the frame

    side r ail brackets (Fig. 3). I nstall the U -shaped re-

    tainer and the bolts. Tighten the bolts finger-tight.

    Check the alignment of the bar to ensure

    there is no interference with the either frame

    rail or chassis component. Spacing should be

    equal on both sides.

    (3) I nstall the link bolt, retainers, spacer and insu-

    lators at the l ower suspension arm (Fig. 3) on each

    side.

    (4) I nstall the washers and the nuts on the anchor

    bolts (Fig. 3). Tighten the nuts to 23 N m (17 ft. lbs.)

    torque.

    (5) Tighten the U-shaped support bracket bolts

    (Fig. 3) to 54 Nm (40 ft. lbs.) torque.

    COIL SPRING

    REMOVAL

    (1) Raise and support the vehicle.

    (2) Remove the applicable front wheel.

    (3) Disconnect the stabilizer bar from the lowersuspension arm.

    (4) Remove the shock absorber.

    (5) I nstall Spring Compressor DD-1278 up through

    the lower suspension arm and coil spring (F ig. 2).

    Spring Compressor DD-1278 will maintain the

    spring in a semi-compressed condition. This

    will retain the spring in place until the lower

    suspension arm is detached from and lowered

    for spring removal.(6) Tighten the tool nut to compress the coil

    spring.

    (7) Pl ace two jack stands under the l ower suspen-

    sion arm immediately outward from where the bush-

    ings are located. Adjust the jack stands tight against

    the lower suspension arm.

    (8) Remove the lower suspension arm mounting

    bolts from the frame rail.

    (9) Slowly lower the jack stands until the coil

    spring tension is relieved. Remove the spring com-pressor tool, coil spring and i solator pad from the ve-

    hicle (Fig. 2).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Tape the i solator pad to the top of the coil

    spring. Position the spring in the l ower suspension

    arm well. Be sure that the coil spring is seated in the

    well (Fi g. 2). The top of the spring i s flat or

    closed with groves at the end of the coil. The

    ramped or open end of the coil spring is the

    bottom.

    (2) I nstall Spring Compressor DD-1278 up through

    the lower suspension arm and coil spring.

    (3) Tighten the tool nut to compress the coil

    spring.

    (4) Pl ace two jack stands under the l ower suspen-

    sion arm immediately outward from where the bush-

    ings are located. Adjust the jack stands tight against

    the lower suspension arm.

    (5) Raise the jack stands until the isolator pad/coil

    spring is correctly seated top and bottom (Fig. 2).

    (6) I nstall the lower suspension arm bolts and

    nuts. Tighten the front nut to 176 Nm (130 ft. lbs.)

    torque and the rear nut to 108 Nm (80 ft. lbs.)

    torque.(7) Remove the spring compressor tool and the jack

    stands.

    (8) I nstall the stabilizer bar.

    (9) I nstall the shock absorber.

    (10) I nstall the wheel and tire.

    LOWER SUSPENSIONARM

    REMOVAL

    (1) Raise and support vehicle.

    (2) Remove disc brake caliper from steering

    knuckle and rotor. Refer to Gr oup 5, Brakes.(3) Remove shock absorber.

    (4) Follow the procedure outlined in Coil Spring

    Removal.

    (5) Position Ball Stud Remover C-3564-A as shown

    (Fig. 4). Rotate threaded portion of tool to apply force

    to the l ower ball stud.

    (6) Strike steering knuckle sharply with a hammer

    to loosen ball stud from knuckle. Do not force ball

    stud out from knuckle with the tool.

    (7) Separate ball stud from steering knuckle arm.

    Fig. 3 Stabilizer Bar

    2 - 10 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    INSTALLATION

    (1) L oosely attach suspension arm to frame side

    rail brackets.(2) Follow the procedure outlined in Coil Spring

    I nstallation.

    (3) Position steering knuckle on ball studs. I nstall

    ball stud retaining nuts. Tighten lower nut to 183

    Nm (135 ft. lbs.) torque. Tighten upper nut to 142

    Nm (105 ft. lbs.) torque. I nstall new cotter pins.

    (4) I nstall the rotor and disc brake caliper. Refer to

    Group 5, Brakes.

    (5) L ower the vehicle. Tighten suspension arm

    front nut to 176 Nm (130 ft. lbs.) torque and rear

    nut to 108 Nm (80 ft. lbs.) torque.

    LOWER BALL STUD

    INSPECTION

    (1) Raise the front of the vehicle. I nstall safety

    floor stands under both lower suspension arms as far

    outboard as possible. The upper suspension arms

    must not contact the rebound bumpers.

    (2) I nstall a dial indicator and clamp assembly to

    the lower suspension arm.

    (3) Position indicator plunger against knuckle arm

    and zero indicator.

    (4) Raise and lower the wheel and tire with a pry

    bar under the center of the tire. Measure the axialmovement of the knuckle with respect to the suspen-

    sion arm.

    (5) I f the travel of the suspension arm is 0.020

    inch (0.51 mm) or more, replace the ball joint.

    REMOVAL

    (1) Raise and support the vehicle.

    (2) Remove the applicable front wheel.

    (3) Remove disc brake caliper from steering

    knuckle and rotor. Refer to Group 5, Brakes.

    (4) Remove shock absorber.

    (5) I nstall Spring Compressor DD-1278. Use a

    piece of pipe to fabri cate a spacer positioned between

    the tool and suspension arm.

    (6) Tighten tool nut against bell-shaped adapter

    tool finger-tight and l oosen 1/2 of-a-turn.

    (7) Remove cotter pins and nuts from ball studs.

    (8) Position Ball Stud Remover C-3564-A as shown

    (Fig. 4). Rotate threaded portion of tool to apply forceto the l ower ball stud.

    (9) Strike steering knuckle sharply with a hammer

    to loosen ball stud from knuckle. Do not force ball

    stud out from knuckle with the tool.

    (10) Remove ball stud seal. Use Remover/I nstaller

    C-4212 to press the ball stud from lower suspension

    arm bore (Fig. 5).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Press new ball stud in lower suspension arm

    with Remover/I nstaller C-4212 (Fi g. 6).

    (2) Position new seal over ball stud. Use a socket

    to force retaining lip of seal until securely locked in-

    place.

    (3) Position steering knuckle on ball studs. I nstallball stud retaining nuts. Tighten lower nut to 183

    Nm (135 ft. lbs.) torque. Tighten upper nut to 142

    Nm (105 ft. lbs.) torque. I nstall new cotter pins.

    (4) Remove spring compressor tool and install

    shock absorber.

    (5) I nstall the disc brake caliper. Refer to Group 5,

    Brakes.

    (6) I nstall the wheel and tire.

    Fig. 4 Loosening Lower Ball Stud

    Fig. 5 Lower Ball Stud Removal

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 11

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    UPPER SUSPENSIONARM

    REMOVAL

    (1) Raise and support the vehicle.

    (2) Remove the applicable front wheel.

    (3) Remove disc brake caliper. Refer to Group 5,

    Brakes.

    (4) Remove shock absorber.

    (5) I nstall Spring Compressor DD-1278. Use a

    piece of pipe to fabricate a spacer positi oned betweenthe tool and suspension arm.

    (6) Tighten tool nut against bell-shaped adapter

    tool finger-tight and l oosen 1/2 of-a-turn.

    (7) Remove cotter pin and nut from upper ball

    stud.

    (8) Position Ball Stud Remover C-3564-A as shown(Fig. 7). Rotate threaded portion of tool to apply forceto the lower ball stud.

    (9) Strike steering knuckle sharply with a hammerto loosen ball stud fr om knuckle. Do not force ballstud out from knuckle with the tool.

    (10) Separate upper ball stud from steering knuckle.(11) Remove suspension arm pivot bar nuts and re-

    move suspension arm (Fig. 8).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Position suspension arm pivot bar on adjust-ment bolts. I nstall nuts and tighten (temporaril y) to136 Nm (100 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (2) Position steering knuckle on upper ball stud.Tighten the upper ball stud nut to 142 Nm (105 ft.lbs.) torque. I nstall a new cotter pin.

    (3) Remove spring compressor tool. I nstall theshock absorber.

    (4) I nstall the disc brake caliper. Refer to Group 5,

    Brakes.

    (5) I nstall the wheel and tire.

    (6) Adjust alignment caster and camber. Refer to

    Front Wheel Alignment in this Group.

    UPPER BALL STUD

    INSPECTION

    (1) Position a fl oor jack under the lower suspension

    arm. Raise the wheel and tire so it lightly contacts

    the fl oor (vehicle weight relieved from the tire).

    (2) Grasp the top of the tire and apply force in and

    out. L ook for any movement at the ball joints be-

    tween the upper suspension arm and steering

    knuckle.

    Fig. 6 Lower Ball Stud Installation

    Fig. 7 Loosening Upper Ball Stud

    Fig. 8 Upper Suspension Arm

    2 - 12 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    (3) I f any lateral movement is evident, replace theball joint.

    REMOVAL

    (1) Pl ace a jack under outer end of lower suspen-sion arm. Raise and support the vehicle.

    (2) Remove the wheel and ti re.(3) Remove cotter pin and nut from upper ball

    stud.(4) Position Ball Stud Remover C-3564-A as shown

    (Fig. 7). Rotate threaded portion of tool to apply forceto the upper ball stud.

    (5) Strike steering knuckle sharply with a hammerto loosen ball stud fr om knuckle. Do not force ballstud out from knuckle with the tool.

    (6) Remove ball stud seal.(7) Use Removal/Installation Tool C-3561 to un-

    thread ball stud fr om suspension arm.

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Thread new ball stud in with Tool C-3561.Tighten ball stud to 170 N m (125 ft. l bs.) torque. Thegap between ball stud Hex and suspension arm boreis 0.25 to 1.25mm (0.01 to 0.05 inch).

    (2) I nstall new seal over ball stud. Make sure sealis securely locked in-place.

    (3) Position steering knuckle on upper ball stud.Tighten the upper ball stud nut to 142 Nm (105 ft.lbs.) torque. I nstall a new cotter pin.

    (4) I nstall the wheel and tire.

    STEERINGKNUCKLE

    REMOVAL(1) Raise and support the vehicle. Pl ace a jack un-der outer end of lower suspension arm.

    (2) Remove the wheel and ti re.(3) Remove disc brake caliper. Refer to Group 5,

    Brakes.(4) Remove tie-rod from steering knuckle arm. Re-

    fer to Group 19, Steering.(5) Remove ABS sensor wire from lower suspension

    arm. Remove the rotor dust shield and ABS pick-upfrom knuckle (Fig. 9).

    (6) Remove cotter pins and nuts from upper andlower ball studs.

    (7) Use Ball Stud Remover C-3564-A to free upperand lower ball joints from steering knuckle (Fig. 4, 7).

    (8) Remove tool and steering knuckle assembly.(9) Remove steering arm from steering knuckle

    (Fig. 10).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) I nstall steering arm on knuckle. Tighten thenuts to 294 Nm (217 ft. lbs.) torque (Fig. 10).

    (2) Position steering knuckle on upper and lowerball studs and i nstall nuts. Tighten lower nut to 183Nm (135 ft. lbs.) torque. Tighten upper nut to 142Nm (105 ft. lbs.) torque. I nstall new cotter pins.

    (3) I nstall rotor dust shield and ABS sensor on steer-

    ing knuckle. Tighten bolts to 24 N m (18 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (4) I nstall tie rod to steering knuckle arm. Refer to

    Group 19, Steering.

    (5) I nstall ABS sensor wire to lower suspension arm.

    (6) I nstall the disc brake caliper. Refer to Group 5,

    Brakes.

    (7) I nstall the wheel and tire.

    Fig. 9 Remove ABS Sensor From Knuckle

    Fig. 10 Steering Knuckle

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 13

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    FRONT SUSPENSION4WD VEHICLES

    INDEX

    page page

    Lower Suspension Arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Shock Absorber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Stabilizer Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Steering Knuckle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

    Torsion Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Upper Ball Stud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Upper Suspension Arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Wheel Hub and Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

    SERVICEINFORMATIONPeriodic lubrication of the front suspension (steer-

    ing) system components is required. Refer to Group

    0, L ubrication And Maintenance for the recom-

    mended maintenance schedule.

    CAUTION: Suspension components with rubberbushings should be tightened with the vehicle at

    normal height. It is important to have the springssupporting the weight of the vehicle when the fas-teners are torqued. If springs are not at their normalride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affectedand premature bushing wear may occur. Rubber

    bushings must never be lubricated.

    WHEEL HUB AND BEARINGSThe 4WD front wheel hub and bearings are ser-

    viced as a complete unit.

    REMOVAL

    (1) Remove the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV DriveShaft Removal in this Group.

    (2) Remove disc brake caliper from steeringknuckle and rotor. Refer to Group 5, Brakes.

    (3) Remove brake r otor from the hub (Fig. 1).

    (4) Remove hub to steering knuckle bolts. Remove

    hub and bearing unit from the steering knuckle (Fig.

    2).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) I nstall the hub on steering knuckle (Fig. 2).

    Tighten the bolts to 149 Nm (110 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (2) I nstall the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV Drive

    Shaft Installation in this Group.

    (3) I nstall disc brake rotor on the hub (Fig. 1).

    (4) I nstall disc brake caliper on steering knuckle

    and rotor. Refer to Group 5, Brakes.

    (5) Test drive the vehicle.

    SHOCKABSORBER

    REMOVAL(1) Remove the hardware from the shock absorber

    stud (Fig. 3).(2) Raise the vehicle, remove the lower bolts and

    remove the shock absorber (Fig. 3).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) I nstall the lower retainer and grommet on theshock absorber stud. I nsert the replacement shockabsorber through the fr ame hole. I nstall the lowerbolt (Fig. 3).

    Fig. 1 Disc Brake Rotor, Wheel Hub & SteeringKnuckle

    Fig. 2 Wheel Hub Removal/Installation

    2 - 14 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    (2) Tighten the bolt to 136 Nm (100 ft. lbs.)

    torque.

    (3) I nstall the upper grommet and retainer on the

    shock absorber stud (Fig. 3). I nstall the bayonet nut

    and tighten to 41 Nm (30 ft. lbs.) torque.

    STABILIZER BAR

    REMOVAL

    (1) Raise and support the vehicle.(2) Remove the bolts attaching the stabilizer bar

    rear support bracket to the frame crossmemberbracket (Fi g. 4).

    (3) Remove the bolts attaching the retainer to thelower suspension arm. Remove the retainer and sta-bilizer bar from the vehicle (Fig. 4).

    (4) I f necessary, remove the rear support bracketsand the bushings from the stabilizer bar (Fig. 4).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) I f removed, install the bushings and the r earsupport brackets on the stabilizer bar (Fig. 4).

    (2) Pl ace the stabilizer bar rear support bracketsadjacent to the frame crossmember brackets (Fig. 4)and install the bolts. Tighten the bolts finger-tight.Check the alignment of the bar to ensure thereis no interference with the either frame rail orchassis component. Spacing should be equal onboth sides.

    (3) Attach the stabilizer bar to the lower suspen-sion arm with the retainer and bolts (Fig. 4). Tightenthe bolts to 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (4) Tighten the rear support bracket bolts (Fig. 4)to 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.) torque.

    TORSION BAR

    SERVICE INFORMATION

    The left and right side torsion bars are NOT inter-

    changeable. The bars are identified and stamped R or

    L , for right or left. T he bars do not have a front or

    rear end and can be installed with either end facing

    forward.

    REMOVAL(1) Remove the suspension arm jounce bumpers

    before raising vehicle.(2) Raise and support the vehicle with the front

    suspension hanging.(3) Turn the adjustment bolt counterclockwise to

    release spring load (F ig. 5). Remove the adjustmentbolt from swivel.

    (4) Remove torsion bar and anchor. Remove anchorfrom torsion bar (Fig. 5).

    Fig. 3 Front Shock Absorber4WD Fig. 4 Stabilizer Bar

    Fig. 5 Torsion Bar

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 15

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    (5) Remove all foreign material from torsion bar

    mounting in anchor and suspension arm (F ig. 5).

    (6) I nspect adjustment bolt and swivel for severe

    corr osion or damage.

    INSTALLATION

    (1) I nsert torsion bar ends into anchor and suspen-

    sion arm (Fig. 5).(2) Position anchor and bushing in frame cross-

    member. I nstall adjustment bolt through bushing

    and anchor and into swivel (Fig. 5).

    (3) Turn adjustment bolt clockwise to apply a

    spring load.

    (4) L ower vehicle and adjust the front suspension

    height. Refer to Wheel Alignment in this group.

    (5) I nstall suspension arm jounce bumpers.

    LOWER SUSPENSIONARM

    REMOVAL

    (1) Remove the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV DriveShaft Removal in this Group.

    (2) Follow the procedure outlined in Torsion Bar

    Removal.

    (3) Remove shock absorber lower bolt.

    (4) Disconnect the stabilizer bar from suspension

    arm.

    (5) Remove the cotter pin and nut from lower ball

    stud. Separate ball stud from steering knuckle with

    Remover C-3564-A.

    (6) Remove suspension arm pivot bolts and suspen-

    sion arm from frame rail brackets (Fig. 6).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Position the lower suspension arm at the frame

    rail brackets. Install the pivot bolts and nuts (Fig. 6).

    Tighten the nuts finger-tight.

    (2) I nsert the ball stud into steering knuckle. I n-

    stall and tighten the retaining nut to 142 Nm (115

    ft. lbs.) torque. I nstall a new cotter pin.

    (3) Follow the procedure outlined in Torsion BarI nstallation.

    (4) I nstall shock absorber lower bolt.

    (5) I nstall the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV Drive

    Shaft Installation in this group.

    (6) I nstall the stabili zer bar to the lower suspen-

    sion arm.

    (7) Ti ghten the lower suspension front pivot nut to

    108 Nm (80 ft. lbs.) torque. Tighten rear pivot bolt to

    176 Nm (130 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (8) Adjust the front suspension height. Refer to

    Wheel Alignment in this Group.

    UPPER SUSPENSIONARM

    REMOVAL

    (1) Remove the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV Drive

    Shaft Removal in this Group.

    (2) Turn torsion bar adjustment bolt counter-clock-

    wise to completely remove tension from torsion bar.

    Count the number of turns for installation reference.

    (3) Remove brake hose brackets from suspension

    arm. Refer to Gr oup 5, Brakes.

    (4) Remove shock absorber lower bolt.

    (5) Remove the cotter pin and nut from lower ball

    stud.(6) Position Ball Stud Remover C-3564-A as shown

    (Fig. 7). Rotate threaded portion of tool to apply forceto the upper ball stud.

    (7) Strike steering knuckle sharply with a hammerto loosen ball stud from knuckle. Do not force ballstud out from knuckle with the tool.

    (8) Separate upper ball stud from steering knucklearm.

    (9) Remove suspension arm pivot bar bolts and re-move suspension arm (Fig. 8).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Position suspension arm pivot bar on adjust-ment bolts. I nstall nuts and tighten (temporarily) to136 Nm (100 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (2) I nsert ball stud in steering knuckle arm. I nstallretaining nut. Tighten nut to 142 Nm (105 ft. lbs.)torque. I nstall a new cotter pin.

    (3) I nstall shock absorber lower bolt.(4) Attach brake hose brackets to suspension arm.

    Refer to Gr oup 5, Brakes.(5) Turn torsion bar adjustment bolt clockwise (the

    amount of turns recorded earlier) to apply tension totorsion bar.

    Fig. 6 Lower Suspension Arm Removal/Installation

    2 - 16 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    (6) I nstall the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV Drive

    Shaft Installation in this Group.

    (7) I nstall the wheel and tire.

    (8) Tighten upper suspension arm pivot bolts to

    210 Nm (155 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (9) Adjust alignment caster and camber. Refer to

    Front Wheel Alignment in this Group.

    UPPER BALL STUD

    INSPECTION(1) Position a fl oor jack under the lower suspension

    arm. Raise the wheel and tire so it lightly contact the

    floor (vehicle weight relieved from the tire).

    (2) Grasp the top of the tire and apply force in and

    out. L ook for any movement at the ball joints be-

    tween the upper suspension arm and steering

    knuckle.

    (3) I f any lateral movement is evident, replace the

    ball joint.

    REMOVAL

    (1) Pl ace a jack under outer end of lower suspen-

    sion arm. Raise and support the vehicle.(2) Remove the wheel and ti re.

    (3) R emove cotter pin and nut from upper ball

    stud.

    (4) Position Ball Stud Remover C-3564-A. Rotate

    threaded portion of tool to apply force to the upper

    ball stud.

    (5) Strike steering knuckle sharply with a hammer

    to loosen ball stud from knuckle. Do not force ball

    stud out from knuckle with the tool.

    (6) Remove ball stud seal.

    (7) Use Removal/ I nstallation Tool C-3561 to un-

    thread ball stud from suspension arm.

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Thread new ball stud in with Tool C-3561.

    Tighten ball stud to 170 N m (125 ft. lbs.) torque. The

    gap between ball stud Hex and suspension arm bore

    is 0.25 to 1.25mm (0.01 to 0.05 inch).

    (2) I nstall new seal over ball stud. Make sure seal

    securely locked in-place.

    (3) Position steering knuckle on upper ball stud.Tighten the upper ball stud nut to 142 Nm (105 ft.lbs.) torque. I nstall a new cotter pin.

    (4) I nstall the wheel and tire.

    STEERINGKNUCKLE

    REMOVAL

    (1) Remove the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV DriveShaft Removal in this Group.

    (2) Turn torsion bar adjustment bolt counter-clock-wise to completely remove tension from torsion bar.Count the number of turns for installation reference.

    (3) Remove shock absorber lower bolt.(4) Disconnect the stabil izer bar from suspension

    arm.

    Fig. 7 Loosening Upper Ball Stud

    Fig. 8 Upper Suspension Arm

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 17

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    (5) Remove the wheel hub and bearings. Refer to

    Wheel Hub and Bearing Removal in this Group.

    (6) Remove tie-rod end stud from steering knuckle

    arm. Refer to Group 19, Steering.

    (7) Remove ABS sensor and wire from upper sus-pension arm (Fig. 9).

    (8) Remove the cotter pin and nut from upper andlower ball stud.

    (9) Use Ball Stud Remover C-3564-A to free upperand lower ball joints from steering knuckle (Fig. 7).

    (10) Strike steering knuckle sharply with a ham-mer to loosen ball stud from knuckle. Do not forceball stud out from knuckle with the tool.

    (11) Remove steering knuckle from vehicle (Fig.10).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Position steering knuckle on upper and lowerball studs and i nstall nuts. Tighten lower nut to 156

    Nm (115 ft. lbs.) torque. Tighten upper nut to 142Nm (105 ft. lbs.) torque. I nstall new cotter pins.

    (2) I nstall ABS sensor on steering knuckle andwire on upper suspension arm. Tighten bolts to 24Nm (18 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (3) I nstall tie rod to steering knuckle arm. Refer toGroup 19, Steering.

    (4) I nstall wheel hub and bearings. Refer to WheelHub and Bearing Installation in this Group.

    (5) I nstall shock absorber lower bolt.

    (6) I nstall the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV DriveShaft Installation in this Group.

    (7) I nstall the stabilizer bar to suspension arm.(8) I nstall the wheel and tire.(9) Turn torsion bar adjustment bolt clockwise (the

    amount of turns recorded earli er) to apply tension totorsion bar.

    (10) Adjust the front suspension height. Refer toWheel Alignment within this Group.

    Fig. 9 Remove ABS Sensor and Wire From Knuckle

    Fig. 10 Steering Knuckle

    2 - 18 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    SERVICE DIAGNOSIS

    INDEX

    page page

    Driveline Snap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Gear and Bearing Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

    Low Speed Knock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Vibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

    GENERAL INFORMATIONAxle bearing problem conditions are usually caused

    by:

    I nsufficient or incorrect lubricant

    Foreign matter/water contaminati on

    I ncorrect bearing preload torque adjustment

    When serviced, the bearings must be cleaned thor-

    oughly. They should be dried with lint-free shop tow-

    els. Never dry bearings with compressed air.

    This will overheat them and brinell the bearingsurfaces. T his will result in noisy operation af-

    ter repair.

    Axle gear problem conditions are usually the result

    of:

    I nsufficient lubrication

    I ncorrect or contaminated lubricant

    Overloading (excessive engine torque)

    I ncorrect clearance or backlash adjustment

    I nsufficient lubrication is usually the result of a

    housing cover leak. I t can also be from worn axle

    shaft or pinion gear seals. Check for cracks or porous

    areas in the housing or tubes.Using the wrong lubricant will cause overheating

    and gear failure. Gear tooth cracking and bearing

    spalling are indicators of this.

    Axle component breakage is most often the result

    of:

    Severe overloading

    I nsufficient lubricant

    I ncorrect lubricant

    I mproperl y tightened components

    Common causes of overloading is from full-throttle

    acceleration. Overloading happens when towing

    heavier-than-recommended loads. Component break-

    age can occur when the wheels are spun excessively.

    I nsufficient or incorrect lubricants contribute to

    breakage through overheating. L oose differential

    components can also cause breakage.

    I ncorrect bearing preload or gear backlash will not

    result in component breakage. Mis-adjustment will

    produce enough noise to cause service repair before a

    failure occurs. I f a mis-adjustment condition is not

    corrected, component fail ure can result.

    GEAR AND BEARINGNOISE

    GEAR NOISE

    Axle gear noise can be caused by insufficient lubri-

    cant. I ncorr ect backlash, tooth contact, or worn/dam-

    aged gears can cause noise.

    Gear noise usually happens at a specific speed

    range. The range i s 30 to 40 mph, or above 50 mph.

    The noise can also occur during a specific type of

    driving condition. These conditions are acceleration,deceleration, coast, or constant load.

    When road testing, accelerate the vehicle to the

    speed range where the noise is the greatest. Shiftout-of-gear and coast through the peak-noise range.I f the noise stops or changes greatly, check for insuf-ficient lubricant. I ncorrect ring gear backlash, orgear damage can cause noise changes.

    Differential side and pinion gears can be checkedby turning the vehicle. They usually do not causenoise in straight-ahead driving. These gears areloaded during vehicle tur ns. I f noise does occur dur-ing vehicle turns, the side or pinion gears could be

    worn or damaged. A worn pinion gear mate shaft canalso cause a snapping or a knocking noise.

    BEARING NOISE

    The axle shaft, differential and pinion gear bear-ings can all produce noise when worn or damaged.Bearing noise can be either a whining, or a growlingsound.

    Pinion gear bearings have a constant-pitch noise.This noise changes only with vehicle speed. Pinionbearing noise wil l be higher because i t rotates at afaster rate. Drive the vehicle and load the differen-tial. I f bearing noise occurs the pinion rear bearing is

    the source of the noise. I f the bearing noise is heardduring a coast, front bearing is the source.

    Worn, damaged differential bearings usually pro-duce a low pitch noise. Differential bearing noise i ssimilar to pinion bearing. The pitch of differentialbearing noise i s also constant and varies only withvehicle speed.

    Axle shaft bearings produce noise and vibrationwhen worn or damaged. T he noise generally changeswhen the bearings are l oaded. Road test the vehicle.Turn the vehicle sharply to the l eft and to the right.This will load the bearings and change the noise

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 19

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    level. Where axle bearing damage is slight, the noiseis usually not noticeable at speeds above 30 mph.

    LOW SPEED KNOCKL ow speed knock is generall y caused by a worn U-

    joint or by worn side-gear thrust washers. A wornpinion gear shaft bore will also cause l ow speed

    knock.

    VIBRATIONVibration at the rear of the vehicle is usually

    caused by a: Damaged drive shaft Missing drive shaft balance weight Worn, out-of-balance wheels L oose wheel lug nuts Worn U-joint Loose spring U-bolts L oose/broken rear springs or shackles Damaged axle shaft bearings

    L oose pinion gear nut Excessive pinion yoke run out Bent axle shaft

    Check for loose or damaged front-end componentsor engine/transmission mounts. These componentscan contribute to what appears to be a rear-end vi-bration. Do not overlook engine accessori es, bracketsand drive belts.

    All driveline components should be examined be-

    fore starting any repair.

    Refer to Group 22, Tires And Wheels for additional

    information.

    DRIVELINESNAPA snap or clunk noise when the vehicle is shifted

    into gear (or the clutch engaged), can be caused by: High engine idle speed

    L oose engine/transmission/transfer case mounts

    Worn U-joints

    L oose spring shackles or U-bolts

    L oose pinion gear nut and yoke

    Excessive ring gear backlash

    Excessive differential side gear-to-case clearance

    With 2WD vehicles, a worn bushing in the

    transmission extension housing can also cause

    noise.

    The source of a snap or a clunk noise can be deter-

    mined with the assistance of a helper. Raise the ve-hicle on a hoist with the wheels free to rotate.

    I nstruct the helper to shift the transmission into

    gear. L isten for the noise, a mechanics stethoscope is

    helpful in isolating the source of a noise.

    2 - 20 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    SERVICE DIAGNOSIS

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 21

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    SERVICE DIAGNOSIS (CONTD)

    2 - 22 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    CV DRIVE SHAFT

    INDEX

    page page

    Inner CV Joint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Outer CV Joint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Rubber Boots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

    Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Shaft Removal/Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

    SERVICEINFORMATIONThe two constant velocity (CV) drive shafts are

    identical and interchangeable. They are compri sed ofthree major components (Fig. 1): An inner, tripod CV joint A short, solid interconnecting shaft An outer, Rzeppa CV joint with stub shaft

    The axle shafts are equipped with ABS tonewheels. The sensors are attached to the knuckle as-

    semblies and tone wheels are pressed on the axleshaft. Use care when removing axle shafts asNOT to damage the tone ring or sensor.

    The inner tripod-joints are attached to the axleshaft flanges (Fig. 1). T he outer joint is splined andmates with the hub bearing on the knuckle.

    The lubricant amounts included with replace-ment rubber boots are different for inner and

    outer CV joints. Apply only the specified lubri-

    cant amount to each CV joint.

    CAUTION: Proper CV joint boot sealing is critical

    for retaining the special lubricant. Prevent foreign

    material from entering and contaminating the CV

    joints. Mishandling a CV drive shaft can cause a

    boot to be punctured or damage within the joints.

    Always support both ends of the CV drive shaft

    during removal and installation to avoid damage.

    When replacing CV drive shaft components,

    ensure that only exact r eplacements parts are

    installed.

    Fig. 1 CV Drive Shaft Components

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 23

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    SHAFT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION

    REMOVAL

    (1) Remove the cotter pin, nut lock, and spring

    washer from the stub shaft (Fig. 2).

    (2) L oosen the lug nuts and hub nut while the ve-hicle is on the surface with the brakes applied (Fig.

    3).

    (3) Raise the vehicle. Remove the skid plate.

    (4) Remove the hub nut and washer from the stub

    shaft (Fi g. 4). Remove the wheel and ti re.

    (5) Remove the bolts that attach the inner housing

    flange to the axle shaft flange (Fig. 5).

    (6) Support the drive shaft at the CV joint hous-

    ings. Separate the stub shaft from the hub bearing.

    Do not pull on the rubber boot. Remove the CV

    drive shaft from the vehicle (Fig. 5).

    INSTALLATION

    (1) I nsert the CV drive shaft stub into the hub

    bearing.

    (2) Attach the inner joint flange to the axle shaft

    flange (F ig. 5). Tighten the bolts to 90 Nm (65 ft.

    lbs.) torque.

    (3) Clean all foreign material from the stub shaftthreads. I nstall the hub nut and washer (Fig. 5).

    (4) Apply the brakes and tighten hub nut to 258

    Nm (190 ft. lbs.) torque.(5) I nstall the spring washer, nut lock and cotter

    pin on the stub shaft (Fig. 6).(6) I nstall the wheel and tire.

    INNER CV JOINT

    DISASSEMBLY

    (1) Remove the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV DriveShaft Removal in this Group.

    (2) Pl ace the inner CV joint housing in a vise.(3) Remove the inner rubber boot retaining clamps

    and clamp protector. Pull the i nner boot back onto

    the interconnecting shaft. Discard the retainingclamps.

    (4) Pull the tripod and shaft straight out from theinner CV joint housing.

    (5) Move the snap retaining ring from the groovebehind the tripod (Fig. 7). Slide the tripod toward thecenter of the shaft. Remove the C-clip on the outerend of the shaft (Fig. 8).

    (6) Remove the tripod from the shaft. Replace theboot as necessary.

    (7) Remove the lubricant from the i nterior of thehousing and from the tripod.

    (8) I nspect the needle bearing raceways in thehousing and tri pod components for excessive wearand damage. Replace the tripod as a unit only ifnecessary.

    ASSEMBLY

    (1) Slide the boot down enough for work access.The inner boot will be marked and MUST only beused on the tripod end.

    (2) I nstall the snap ring past the ring grove (to-ward the center of the shaft). Slide the tripod ontothe end of the interconnecting shaft. Be sure thechamfered end of the tripod is adjacent to the C-

    Fig. 2 Cotter Pin, Nut Lock & Spring WasherRemoval

    Fig. 3 Loosening Wheel Hub Nut

    Fig. 4 Hub Nut & Washer

    2 - 24 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    clip retaining ring groove (Fig. 8).

    (3) I nstall the C-clip i n the groove. Slide the tripod

    out against the clip. I nstall the snap ring in the in-

    ner groove. Be sure the snap ring and C-clip are

    seated.

    (4) Apply the lubricant that is included with the

    replacement rubber boot. Coat the interior of the

    joint housing and the tripod. I nsert and seat the tri -

    pod (and shaft) in the housing.

    (5) Position the large-diameter end of the inner CV

    joint rubber boot over the edge of the housing. I nsert

    the lip of the boot into the locating groove at the edge

    of the housing (Fig. 9).

    (6) I nsert the small lip into the locating groove in

    the interconnecting shaft.

    Fig. 5 CV Drive Shaft Removal/Installation

    Fig. 6 Cotter Pin Installation

    Fig. 7 Snap Retaining Ring Removal

    Fig. 8 C-Clip Removal/Installation

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 25

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    (7) Retain the inner CV joint rubber boot in-place

    on the housing and on the shaft with replacement re-

    taining clamps. Refer to CV J oint Rubber Boots in

    this Section.

    OUTER CV JOINTIf the outer CV joint is excessively worn, re-

    place the entire CV joint and rubber boot.

    DISASSEMBLY

    (1) Remove the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV Drive

    Shaft Removal in this Group.(2) Unsnap the clamp protectors (if installed). Re-

    move retaining clamps from the outer CV joint anddiscard. Sl ide the boot off the outer joint and down

    the shaft.(3) Remove the lubricant to expose the outer CV

    joint components (Fig. 10).

    (4) Clamp the shaft in a vise (with soft jaws). Sup-port the outer CV joint. Use snap ring pliers to re-lease the clip from the groove. Slide the outer CVjoint from the shaft. (Fig. 11).

    (5) Remove the slinger (if damaged) from the outer

    CV joint. Use a brass drift and a hammer. Tap

    slinger ring off CV joint and discard.

    (6) Remove the surplus lubricant. Apply installa-

    tion alignment marks on the bearing hub, bearing

    cage and housing with dabs of paint (Fi g. 12).

    (7) Clamp the outer CV joint i n a vertical position.

    Place the stub shaft in a soft-jawed vise (to avoid

    damage to the shaft spli nes).

    (8) Press down on one side of the bearing cage/hub

    to tilt the cage. This will provide access to a ball atthe opposite side of the cage. I f the CV joint is tight,

    use a hammer and brass drift to loosen the bearing

    hub. Do not contact the bearing cage with the

    drift.

    (9) Remove the ball from the bearing cage (Fig.

    13). I f necessary, a small pry bar can be used to pry

    the ball loose from the cage.

    (10) Repeat the step above until all six balls are

    removed from the bearing cage.

    Fig. 9 Inner CV Joint Boot

    Fig. 10 Outer CV Joint Components

    Fig. 11 Outer CV Joint Removal

    Fig. 12 Ball Access

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    (11) Tilt the bearing cage and hub to a vertical po-

    sition. Remove the cage from the housing. Pull cage

    upward and away from the housing (Fig. 14).

    (12) Turn the bearing hub 90 from the bearing

    cage. Align one pair of the hub lands with the cage

    windows. Raise and insert one of the lands into the

    adjacent cage window. Remove the bearing hub by

    rolling it out of the cage (Fig. 15).

    INSPECTION

    I nspect the lubricant for contamination. I nspect theouter CV joint components for defects according to

    the following instructions.

    (1) Clean all the components with an appropriate

    solvent and dry them with compressed air.

    (2) I nspect the ball raceways in the housing for ex-

    cessive wear and scoring.

    (3) Examine the stub shaft splines and threads for

    damage.

    (4) I nspect the balls for pitting, cracks, scoring and

    excessive wear. A dull exterior surface is normal.

    (5) I nspect the bearing cage for wear, grooves, rip-

    ples, cracks and chipping.

    (6) I nspect the bearing hub (Fig. 10) for excessive

    wear and scoring on ball raceways.Polished contact surface areas on the race-

    ways and on the bearing cage spheres are nor-mal. I f the joints cause a noise or a vibration,replace them.

    ASSEMBLY

    (1) L ightly apply lubricating oil to all the outer CVjoint components (Fig. 9) before assembling them.

    (2) Align the bearing hub, cage and housing (Fig.12) according to the alignment reference marks.

    (3) I nsert one of the bearing hub lands into a bear-ing cage window (Fig. 15). Roll the hub into the cage.

    Rotate the bearing hub 90 to complete the installa-tion (Fig. 16).

    (4) I nsert bearing cage/hub into the housing (Fig.18). Rotate the cage/hub 90 to complete the installa-tion (Fig. 19).

    (5) Apply the lubricant included with the replace-ment rubber boot to the ball raceways. Spread the lu-

    Fig. 13 Ball Removal

    Fig. 14 Bearing Cage & Hub Removal

    Fig. 15 Bearing Hub Removal

    Fig. 16 Bearing Hub Installation

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 27

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    bricant equall y between all the raceways. One packet

    of lubricant is sufficient to lubricate the complete CV

    joint.

    (6) Til t the bearing hub and cage and install the

    balls in the raceways (Fig. 20).

    (7) Apply a small amount of lubricant to inner di-

    ameter of slinger. Pl ace slinger squarely on the

    outer CV joint. Use installer tool L -4518-1 from tool

    set L -4518 and hammer slinger onto joint until it

    seats (Fig. 21).

    CAUTION: Prevent damage to the slinger after in-

    stallation or a when a replacement outer CV joint is

    installed.

    (8) Position the small-diameter end of the replace-

    ment rubber boot on the i nterconnecting shaft. Re-

    tain the boot with a r eplacement clamp. Refer to CV

    J oint Rubber Boots in this Section.

    (9) Align the shaft splines to the outer CV joint

    splines. Push the outer CV joint until the snap ring

    seats in the groove (Fig. 22).

    Fig. 17 Assembled Bearing Cage & Hub

    Fig. 18 Bearing Cage & Hub Installation

    Fig. 19 Bearing Cage & Hub Installed In Housing

    Fig. 20 Ball Installation In Raceway

    Fig. 21 Slinger Installation

    2 - 28 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    (10) Ensure that the snap ring is properly seated

    in the housing. Pull the outer CV joint from the in-

    terconnecting shaft to test.(11) Pl ace the large-diameter end of the replace-

    ment rubber boot over the edge of the CV joint hous-

    ing. Ensure that the boot is not twisted.

    (12) Retain the rubber boot on the housing with a

    replacement retaining clamps. Refer to CV J oint

    Rubber Boots in this Section.

    RUBBER BOOTS

    HANDLING AND CLEANING PRECAUTIONS

    Extreme care must be exercised to avoid punctur-

    ing or tearing the boots.

    The rubber material in shaft boots is not com-patible with oil, gasoline, or petroleum-based

    cleaning solvents. Do not expose the rubber

    boots to any of these fluids. Use only soap and

    water to clean the rubber boots. After cleaning,

    the rubber boot must be thoroughly rinsed and

    dried.

    INSPECTION

    L ook for lubricant around the exterior of a boot.

    When a CV drive shaft is removed from the vehicle

    for service, the boot should be properly cleaned. I n-

    spect for cracks, tears and scuffed areas on the sur-faces. If any of these conditions exist, boot

    replacement is recommended.

    RETAINING CLAMPS

    Two different sizes of ladder type clamps are used

    to retain the rubber boots. The same size ladder

    clamp i s used to retain the small-diameter end of the

    inner and outer CV J oint rubber boots. Clamp I n-

    staller/Remover C-4124 is used to compress and

    tighten the clamp (Fig. 23). Service replacement

    clamps use a protective plastic strap over both inner

    and outer large clamps. The clamps are installed ac-

    cording to the provided instructions below.

    RUBBER BOOT INSTALLATIONThe CV drive shaft rubber boots are the same

    for inner and outer CV joints.

    The lubricant amounts included with replace-

    ment rubber boots are different for inner and

    outer CV joints. Apply only the specified lubri-

    cant amount to each CV joint.

    (1) I nsert the lip located within the small-diameter

    end of the rubber boot i nto the shaft groove (Fig. 23).

    (2) Retain the small-diameter of the boot on the

    shaft with a ladder-type clamp in the boot groove

    (Fig. 23). Ensure that the boot and lip are properly

    positioned on the interconnecting shaft. Position the

    clamp tangs in the slots and manually tighten the

    clamp as much as possible.

    (3) Compress the clamp bridge with Remover/I n-

    staller C-4124. Squeeze the tool handles to complete

    the tightening of the clamp (Fig. 24). Care must be

    exercised when using the tool to avoid cutting

    through the clamp bridge or damaging the rub-

    ber boot.

    (4) Position the large-diameter end of the boot on

    the inner or outer CV joint housing (as applicable).

    After the inner joint boot small clamp is installed,

    the inboard hub must be set to a service build length.

    Compress the inner hub down the connectorshaft. Use a small blunt drift between the largeend and the boot seal to relieve the pressure. Thedistance edge of the lip to the edge of the flangeshould be 190.00 mm (7.48 in.) (Fig. 25). This willeliminate excess air that can cause a Ballooning af-fect and possibly cause damage to the boot.

    (5) Ensure that the rubber boot is not twisted andthat it is correctly positioned on the housing.

    (6) I nstall the large ladder clamp on the boot andsecure as done with the small ladder clamps (Fig.24).

    Fig. 22 Outer CV Joint Installation

    Fig. 23 Boot Retaining Clamp Locations

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 29

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    (7) I nstall the two piece plastic clamp protectorover each of the large diameter clamps. Snap the

    pieces together.(8) I nstall the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV DriveShaft Installation in this Group.

    Fig. 25 Inboard Joint Service Build Length

    Fig. 24 Compressing Clamp Bridge

    2 - 30 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    7 1/4 INCH FRONT AXLE

    INDEX

    page page

    Axle Shaft, Seal and Bearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Differential and Pinion Measurement with Gauge

    Set C-3715-B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Differential Case Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Drive Axle Assembly Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

    General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Lubricant Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Lubricant Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Pinion Gear Shaft Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Pinion Shaft Seal Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

    GENERAL INFORMATIONThe 7 1/4 inch front axle consists of a cast iron dif-

    ferential housing with axle shaft tubes extending

    from either side. The tubes are pressed into and

    welded to the differential housing to form a one-piece

    axle housing.

    The integral type housing, hypoid gear design has

    the centerline of the pinion set below the centerlineof the ring gear.

    The axle has a fitting for a vent hose used to re-

    li eve internal pressure caused by lubricant vaporiza-

    tion and internal expansion.

    The axle shafts are retained by C-clips in the dif-

    ferential side gears.

    The cover provides a means for inspection and ser-

    vice of the differential without removing the axle.

    The axles have the gear ratio listed on a tag. The

    tag is attached to the housing cover.

    The differential case is a one-piece design. The dif-

    ferential pinion mate shaft is retained with a

    threaded roll pin. Differential bearing preload and

    ring gear backlash is adjusted by the use of threaded

    adjusters. The adjusters are located between the dif-

    ferential bearing cups and housing tubes. Pinion

    bearing preload is set and maintained by the use of a

    collapsible spacer.

    PINION GEAR DEPTH MEASUREMENT WITH

    GAUGE SET C-3715-B is used when;

    The axle/differential housing is being replaced

    The original pinion depth shim pack is lost or mis-

    placed

    Replacing the differential case

    Replacing pinion and differential bearings

    LUBRICANTSPECIFICATIONSMulti-purpose, hypoid gear lubricant should be

    used in the 7 1/4 inch axle. The lubricant shouldhave MI L -L-2105C and API GL 5 quality specifica-tions. MOPAR Hypoid Gear L ubricant conforms toboth of these specifications. The factory installed lubricant for the 7 1/4 inchfront axle is SAE 80W 90 gear lubricant The factory installed lubricant quantity is 481fluid oz.

    Refer to Group 0, L ubrication and Maintenance for

    additional information.

    CAUTION: If axle is submerged in water, lubricant

    must be replaced immediately to avoid possible

    premature axle failure.

    DRIVE AXLE ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT

    REMOVAL

    I t is not necessary to remove the complete axle

    from the vehicle for routine or differential service. I f

    the differential housing or axle shaft tubes are dam-

    aged, the complete axle can be removed and in-

    stalled.

    (1) Raise and support the vehicle. Remove the skid

    plate.

    (2) Remove the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV Drive

    Shaft Removal in this Group.

    (3) Remove the front propeller shaft from the

    transfer case. Refer to Gr oup 16, Propell er Shafts.

    (4) Unbolt the axle from the support brackets. Re-

    fer to (Fig. 2).

    (5) Use an adjustable and movable jack to support

    the differential housing while removing the bolts.

    (6) L ower the jack and housing. Remove the axle

    and propeller shaft from vehicle.

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Raise the housing and propeller shaft into posi-

    tion. L oosely install the bolts and nuts to the brack-

    ets (Fig. 2).

    A drift pin will be helpful when aligning thebolt holes. There are alignment holes in the

    adapter and in the support brackets for this

    purpose.(2) Tighten all the bolts finger-tight, then tighten

    according to the following specifications: I nsulator-to-differential (left side) housingnut102 Nm (75 ft. lbs.) torque I nsulator-to-square block (right side) housingnut102 Nm (75 ft. lbs.) torque Transmission support bracket-to- housing bolt88Nm (65 ft. lbs.) torque

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 31

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    Fig. 1 Drive Axle7 1/4 Inch Axle

    2 - 32 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    Support bracket-to-adapter (left side) bolt88 Nm

    (65 ft. lbs.) Torque

    (3) Connect the propeller shaft to the transfer case

    output shaft flange. Refer to Group 16, PropellerShafts.

    (4) Connect the CV drive shafts to the axle shaft

    flanges. Refer to CV Drive Shaft in this Group.

    (5) I nstall the skid plate with the bolts. Tighten

    the bolts to 23 Nm (200 in. lbs.) torque.

    (6) Adjust the vehicle in a level position. Check the

    differential housing lubricant level.

    (7) I f necessary, add MOPAR Hypoid Gear L ubri-

    cant (or an equivalent).

    (8) Remove the supports and lower the vehicle to

    the surface.

    LUBRICANTCHANGEThe gear lubricant will drain quicker if the vehicle

    has been recently driven.

    (1) Raise and support the vehicle.

    (2) Remove the lubricant fill hole plug from the dif-

    ferential housing cover.

    (3) Remove the differential housing cover and

    drain the lubricant from the housing.

    (4) Clean the housing cavity with a flushing oil,

    light engine oil or lint free cloth. Do not use water,

    steam, kerosene or gasoline for cleaning.

    (5) Remove the sealant from the housing and cover

    surfaces. Use solvent to clean the mating surfaces.

    (6) Apply a bead of M OPAR Silicone Rubber Seal-

    ant to the housing cover (Fig. 3). Allow the sealantto cure for a few minutes.

    Fig. 2 Axle and Engine Mounting

    Fig. 3 Typical Housing Cover With Sealant

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 33

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    Install the housing cover within 5 minutes af-

    ter applying the sealant. If not installed the

    sealant must be removed and another bead ap-

    plied.

    (7) I nstall the cover and any identification tag.

    Tighten the cover bolts in a criss-cross pattern to 47

    Nm (35 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (8) Refill the differential with MOPAR HypoidGear L ubricant within 13 mm (1/2 in.) below the fill

    plug hole.

    (9) I nstall the fill hole plug and lower the vehicle.

    PINIONSHAFT SEAL REPLACEMENT

    REMOVAL

    (1) Raise and support the vehicle.

    (2) Mark the propeller shaft yoke and pinion yoke

    for installation alignment reference.

    (3) Remove the propell er shaft from the yoke.

    (4) Rotate the pinion gear three or four times.

    (5) M easure the amount of torque (in Newton-

    meters or inch-pounds) necessary to rotate the pinion

    gear with a torque wrench. Note the torque for in-

    stallation reference. It must be known to properly

    adjust the pinion gear bearing preload torque

    after seal installation.

    (6) Remove the pinion yoke nut and washer. Use

    Remover C-452 and Wrench C-3281 to remove the

    pinion yoke (Fig. 4).

    (7) Mark the positions of the yoke and pinion gear

    for installation alignment reference.

    (8) Remove the pinion shaft seal with Puller C-748(Fig. 5). Clean the seal contact surface in the housingbore.

    INSTALLATION

    (1) Apply a light coating of gear lubricant on thelip of pinion seal. I nstall seal with I nstaller C-4076-Aand Handle C-4735.

    (2) Align the installation reference marks and in-

    stall yoke on the pinion gear with I nstaller C-3718

    and Wrench C-3281.

    (3) I nstall the Bellevill e washer. The convex side of

    the washer must face outward. Install a new nut on

    the pinion gear. Tighten the nut only enough toremove the shaft end play.

    CAUTION: Exercise care during the bearing preload

    torque adjustment. Do not over-tighten, or loosen

    and then re-tighten the nut. Do not exceed the bear-

    ing preload torque. The collapsible preload spacer

    on the pinion shaft will have to be replaced. The

    bearing preload torque will be re-adjusted after-

    ward.

    Fig. 4 Pinion Yoke Removal

    Fig. 5 Pinion Seal Removal

    Fig. 6 Pinion Seal Installation

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    (4) I nstall a socket and i nch-pound torque wrench

    on the pinion nut.

    (5) Rotate the shaft with the torque wrench and

    note the torque.

    Required preload torque is the amount re-

    corded during removal plus an additional 0.56

    Nm (5 in. lbs.).

    (6) Use Flange Wrench C-3281 to retain the yokeand shaft (F ig. 7). Tighten the shaft nut in very

    small increments.

    (7) Continue tightening the shaft nut in small in-crements until the correct bearing preload torque isattained.

    (8) Align the installation reference marks and at-tach the propell er shaft to the yoke.

    (9) Add API grade GL 5 hypoid gear lubricant tothe differential housing, if necessary.

    (10) L ower the vehicle.

    AXLE SHAFT, SEAL AND BEARING

    LEFT SIDE AXLE SHAFT REMOVAL

    (1) Raise and support the vehicle.(2) Disconnect CV drive shaft from axle shaft

    flange. Refer to CV Drive Shaft Removal.(3) Cl ean all the foreign material from housing

    cover area.(4) L oosen the housing cover bolts and drain the

    lubricant from the housing. Remove the housingcover.

    (5) Rotate the differential case so the differentialpinion shaft lock screw is accessible. Remove the lockscrew and pinion shaft from the differential case(Fig. 8).

    (6) Push the axle shaft in toward the center of the

    vehicle. Remove the axle shaft C-clip lock from the

    axle shaft (Fig. 9).

    (7) Remove the axle shaft. Use care to prevent

    damage to the axle shaft bearing, which will remain

    in the axle shaft tube.

    (8) I nspect the axle shaft bearing contact surface

    area for indications of brinelling, spalling, and pit-

    ting.

    (9) I f any of these conditions exist, the axle shaftand bearing must be replaced.

    The normal appearance (from roller bearingcontact) will be a dull gray surface area thatcould appear slightly dented.

    RIGHT SIDE AXLE SHAFT REMOVAL

    (1) Raise and support the vehicle.(2) Remove CV drive shaft from axle shaft flange.

    Refer to CV Drive Shaft Removal.(3) Remove shock absorber.(4) Turn torsion bar adjustment bolt counter-clock-

    wise to completely remove tension from torsion bar.Count the number of turns for installation reference.

    Fig. 7 Tightening Pinion Shaft Nut

    Fig. 8 Pinion Mate Shaft Lock Screw

    Fig. 9 Axle Shaft C-Clip Lock

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 35

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    (5) Remove cotter pin and nut from lower ball

    stud. Separate ball stud fr om knuckle with Remover

    C-3564A.

    (6) Cl ean all the foreign material from housing

    cover area.

    (7) L oosen the housing cover bolts and drain the

    lubricant from the housing. Remove the housing

    cover.(8) Rotate the differential case so the differential

    pinion shaft lock screw is accessible. Remove the lock

    screw and pinion shaft from the differential case

    (Fig. 8).

    (9) Push the axle shaft in toward the center of the

    vehicle. Remove the axle shaft C-clip lock from the

    axle shaft (Fig. 9).

    (10) L ift knuckle and upper suspension arm up

    and remove the axle shaft. Use care to prevent dam-

    age to the axle shaft bearing, which will remain in

    the axle shaft tube.

    (11) I nspect the axle shaft bearing contact surfacearea for indications of brinelling, spalling, and pit-

    ting.

    (12) I f any of these conditions exist, the axle shaft

    and bearing must be replaced.

    The normal appearance (from roller bearing

    contact) will be a dull gray surface area that

    could appear slightly dented.

    SEAL AND BEARING REMOVAL

    (1) Remove the axle shaft seals (Fig. 10) with a

    small pry bar.

    (2) Remove the bearing if it appears damaged or

    the axle shaft shows any of the conditions described

    above.

    (3) Remove the bearing with Remover C-4167 and

    Slide H ammer C-637.

    (4) I nspect the axle shaft tube bore for roughness

    and burrs. Remove as necessary.

    CAUTION: Inspect the housing bore for burrs. Re-

    move them if they exist.

    BEARING AND SEAL INSTALLATION

    (1) Wipe the bore in the axle shaft tube clean.

    (2) I nstall bearing into axle shaft tube with I n-

    staller C-4198 and Handle C-4171.

    CAUTION: DO NOT use the new axle shaft seal to

    position or seat the bearing in the axle shaft bore.

    (3) I nstall a new axle shaft seal (Fig. 11) with I n-

    staller C-4203 and H andle C-4171. The flat side of

    the installation tool must face the seal.

    AXLE SHAFT INSTALLATION(1) L ubricate the bearing bore and seal lip. I nsert

    the axle shaft and engage the splines with the side

    gear. Use care to prevent the shaft splines from

    damaging the axle shaft seal lip.

    (2) I nsert the C-clip lock in the recessed groove.

    Push the axle shaft outward to seat the C-clip lock.

    (3) I nsert the pinion gear mate shaft in the case.

    I nstall through the thrust washers and pinion gears.

    Align the hole in the shaft with the lock screw hole.

    I nstall the lock screw with L octite on the threads.

    Tighten the screw to 11 Nm (8 ft. lbs.) torque.

    (4) Clean the cover and apply a bead of sealant.

    Refer to the Drain and Refill in this section.

    (5) Remove the fil l hole plug. Fill the differential

    housing with lubricant. Refer to the Specifications

    chart for the type and the quantity. I nstall the fill

    hole plug.

    LEFTAXLESHAFT

    (1) I nstall the CV drive shaft. Refer to CV Drive

    Shaft Installation.

    (2) L ower the vehicle and test the axle for correct

    operation.

    Fig. 10 Axle Shaft, Seal & Bearing

    Fig. 11 Axle Shaft Seal Installation

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    RIGHT AXLESHAFT

    (1) I nsert lower ball stud into steering knuckle. In-stall nut and tighten to 163 N m (120 ft. lbs.). I nstallnew cotter pin.

    (2) Turn torsion bar adjustment bolt clockwise thenumber of turns recorded during removal.

    (3) I nstall CV drive shaft. Refer to CV Drive Shaft

    I nstallation.(4) I nstall shock absorber.(5) L ower the vehicle and test the axle for correct

    operation.

    DIFFERENTIAL CASE REMOVAL(1) Remove the axle shafts, Refer to Axle Shaft Re-

    moval.Side play and runout checks taken during

    disassembly will be very useful in reassembly.(2) Measure for differential side play. Position a

    screwdriver or pinch bar between left side of axlehousing and case flange (Fig. 12). Use a prying mo-

    tion to determine if any side play exists. Thereshould be no side play.

    Side play resulting from bearing races beingloose on case hubs requires replacement of thedifferential case. Otherwise, use threaded ad-juster to remove the side play before measuringthe ring gear runout.

    (3) Eliminate any side play in the differential case.Attach Dial I ndicator to P ilot stud C-3288-B. Placethe indicator plunger at a right angle (90) to thering gear (Fig. 13). T he plunger should exert a slightforce against the gear face.

    (4) Measure the runout by turning the ri ng gearseveral complete revolutions. Observe the dial indica-

    tor pointer. M ark the ri ng gear and the differential

    case at the areas of maximum runout. The ring gear

    runout should not exceed 0.005 inch (0.13 mm). I f therunout exceeds 0.005 inch (0.13 mm), a damaged dif-

    ferential case could be the cause.

    The marking on the differential case will be

    very useful later during the differential caserunout.

    (5) Mark the differential housing and the differen-tial bearing caps for installation r eference (Fig. 14).

    (6) Remove the bearing threaded adjuster lockfrom each bearing cap. L oosen the bolts, but do notremove the bearing caps.

    (7) L oosen the threaded adjusters with WrenchC-4164 (Fig. 15).

    (8) Hold the differential case in place. Remove thebearing caps (Fi g. 16), adjusters and the differentialcase.

    Each differential bearing cup and threadedadjuster must be kept in their respective bear-

    Fig. 12 Differential Case Side Play Test

    Fig. 13 Ring Gear Runout Measurement

    Fig. 14 Housing & Caps Marked For InstallationReference

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 37

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    ing. The adjusters for 7 1/4 Inch axles will re-

    main in the differential housing.

    PINION GEAR SHAFTREMOVAL(1) Remove the pinion gear nut and washer. Use

    Puller C-452 and Wrench C-3281 to remove the pin-ion gear yoke (F ig. 17).

    (2) Remove the pinion shaft seal with Puller C-748

    (Fig. 18). Clean the seal contact surface in the hous-

    ing bore.

    (3) Force the pinion gear out the front bearing to

    remove the shaft and fr ont bearing. This will dam-

    age the front bearing rollers and bearing cup.

    The front bearing and cup must be replaced.

    Discard the bearing collapsible spacer.

    (4) Remove the front and rear bearing cups.

    Front bearing cup use Remover C-4306 and Han-

    dle C-4171

    Rear bearing cup use Remover C-4306 and Handle

    C-4171

    (5) Remove the rear bearing from the pinion shaft

    with Pul ler C-293-PA and Adapter C-293-40 (Fig. 19).

    Remove and record the pinion gear depth shims.

    RING GEAR

    Do not remove the ring gear from case unlessthe runout must be measured.

    (1) Clamp the case (with the ri ng gear bolts facingupward). Use a vise equipped with soft jaws (brass).

    (2) Remove and discard the ring gear bolts. Thebolts have left-hand threads. Use a hammer and abrass drift to force the ring gear loose from the casepilots. Remove the ring gear.

    Fig. 15 Threaded Adjuster Tool

    Fig. 16 Differential Bearing Cap RemovedTypical

    Fig. 17 Pinion Gear Yoke Removal

    Fig. 18 Pinion Seal Removal

    2 - 38 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE

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    CASE FLANGE RUNOUT MEASUREMENT

    (1) I f the ring gear runout exceeded 0.005 inch

    (0.13 mm), case flange runout should also be mea-

    sured. I nstall the case with the bearing cups and the

    threaded adjusters close to their original position.

    (2) I nstall the bearing caps and bolts. Tighten the

    bolts lightly. Use Wrench C-4164 to thread both ad-

    justers inward. Remove all side play.

    (3) Attach Dial I ndicator to measure the flange

    runout. The plunger should contact the ring squarelybetween the outer edge and the gear bolt holes (Fig.

    20).

    (4) Rotate the differential case several times. Ob-

    serve the dial indicator pointer. Mark the area of

    maximum flange runout. The differential case flange

    runout must not exceed 0.003 i nch (0.08 mm). I f the

    runout exceeds the amount, replace the differential

    case.

    You can reduce excessive r ing gear runout by

    positioning the ring gear runout mark 180 de-

    grees opposite the flange runout mark.

    (5) Remove the differential bearing cap bolts. Re-

    move the differential case from the differential hous-ing.

    DIFFERENTIAL CASE DISASSEMBLY

    (1) Rotate the side gears until the pinion gears are

    located at the differential case opening and remove

    them.

    (2) Remove the side gears and the thrust washers.

    (3) Remove the differential bearings from the case

    hubs with Pull er C-293-PA and Adapter C-293-44 and

    Plug SP-3289 (Fig. 21).

    CLEANING AND INSPECTION

    (1) Cl ean all of the differential components in

    cleaning solvent. Allow the bearings to either air dry

    or dry them with a li nt-free cloth. Dry the other com-

    ponents with compressed air.

    (2) Examine each component for wear or damage.

    (3) Replace shims, bearings and cups as a set only.

    Replace bearings and cups i f either is galled, worn,

    cracked, or damaged.

    Fig. 19 Inner Bearing Removal

    Fig. 20 Case Flange Runout Measurement

    Fig. 21 Differential Bearing Removal

    FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 39

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    (4) I nspect the differential side and pinion gears.

    Replace any gear that is worn, cracked or chipped.

    (5) I nspect the differential case. Replace the case if

    cracked or damaged.

    Polish each axle shaft with No. 600 crocus

    cloth. This can remove slight surface damage.

    Do not reduce the diameter of the axle shaft

    seal contact surface. When polishing, the crocuscloth should be moved around the circumfer-

    ence of the shaft (not in-line with the shaft).