marv h.

I have a squeak in the front end, when I turn one way or the other. I can also feel a jerking in the steering wheel at times when turning, seems like more in the morning.? So I think maybe the u-joints on the front axle, just inside the hubs are needing replaced. I am sorry, I don't know the acual name for them. Does this sound reasonable? What is involved in replacing them? Do I need special tools? Is this joint replacable, or do I need a new axle shaft? Thanks for any help you could give. Marv.

pind

These are outboard steering axle u-joints. they are replaceable, I used greaseable joints on mine, available at NAPA. I cannot recall the part numbers offhand, but they have been holding up quite well.
If your ball joints are at all worn out, its a good job to do the ball joints at the same time as the axle u joints, to avoid taking it apart more that you have to. Front end work is not my personal fave.

Good luck with it

b4wheeler

These can be replaced. Depending on mileage it could be difficult. I replaced one on my 99 and it was frozen in. I had to use a torch to burn it out.
Sometimes it is cheaper and easier to have a shop that has the right tools do it for you. A good shop press will be your best friend.
Just don't go to Dodge for the u-joints. They are about triple the going rate from the dealer.

hamilton71801

I was replacing my ball joints and decided to do the axle u-joints since I would already be that close and they only costs about $20 each(I think). The mechanic didn't even charge me for the extra labor but be careful when you replace them because there is a seal there and it will leak if you're not very careful with it.

kawi600

a thump in my steering from stop to stop turns was caused by a loose trackbar ball stud. Could try cranking that down a bit and see.
Seems like the stud was moving around in the hole and would make a loud pop when it overcame friction and jumped to the other side of the hole.

marv h.

Thanks for the replies, This is good info. So the axle can be pulled out without too much hassle? Are the seals out towards the ends of the axle housing? I can use Dad's press. Thanks again guys! Marv.

TIMMY22

unless you do it everyday, it's a PIA!

plow

Mine was a bad steering column bushing.

marv h.

ok, I am going to try to replace one or both if I have time. I don't have a manual, so I am a little nervous. I don't know what to expect, the axle engagement for the 4x4, do I need a puller to get the axle out? Well I guess I will know more by tonight. Thanks for the helpful replies. This is a great support group!

berner

There's some good info on Dave Fritz's site. http://www.dodgeram.org/tech/repair/index.html Do a search on axle removal for tips on getting the axles out using a socket and turning the steeriing wheel. Be careful when re-installing the axles so you don't damage the seals. They're a PITA to change.

marv h.

thanks berner!

Stormin_Norman

Those yokes are soft, take them in and get them pressed in and out at a machine shop unless you have a press. Even a slight bend in the yokes can cause the C-clip on the u-joint cap to spit out and the cap to fly off.

Also don't be suprised to see oil dripping out of the tubes for a few day after.

marv h.

Thank you Stormin Norman, I do have access to a press, but I don't have a puller to get the axle out, so I am waiting til I see if I can borrow or rent one somewhere. Marv.

farmer0_1

if you are talking about removing the front drive axle shaft from than big sealed bearing thing do a search on hear i just did the same repair on a 97, new ujoints and axle seals. i did the two person method with someone turning the steering wheel while i held a piece of short shaft in place to push that sealed bearing holder out.

TIMMY22

after you do the passenger side, it will look like its leaking for a while, its just the 90W that is left in the tube on the outside of the seal. I guess mine could have been overfilled before I removed the seal?