Rear Axle - 210RII: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: This procedure requires the compression of the rear suspension to ride height. A drive-on hoist should be used. If a drive-on hoist is not used, screw-style under-hoist jack stands are required to compress the rear suspension, facilitating rear halfshaft removal.

CAUTION: Never grasp halfshaft assembly by the inner or outer boots. Doing so may cause the boot to pucker or crease, reducing the service life of the boot and joint. Avoid over angulating or stroking the C/V joints when handling the halfshaft.

Fig 1: Rear Axle Drain Plug

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With vehicle in neutral, position and raise vehicle on hoist.
Using 14mm hex, remove axle drain plug (1) and drain rear axle fluid into container suitable for fluid reuse.
Install drain plug (1) and torque to 50 N.m (37 ft. lbs.) torque.

Fig 2: Identifying Clamps & Rear Exhaust System
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Remove rear exhaust system (2) on dual-outlet exhaust models, otherwise, lower exhaust system at rear hanger(s).

Fig 3: Alignment Marks At Shaft And Flange
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Apply alignment index marks (3) to the propeller shaft rubber coupler (1) and axle flange (2).

Fig 4: Propeller Shaft At Rear Axle Flange
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Remove three (3) propeller shaft coupler-to-axle flange bolt/nuts.

Fig 5: Halfshaft Removal (V6 Models)
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Using suitable screwdriver (1), partially disengage halfshaft(s) (2) from axle assembly.

Fig 6: Supporting Rear Axle With Jack Stands Transmission Jack
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If a drive-on hoist is used, position transmission jack(1) to rear axle assembly. If a drive-on hoist is not used, compress rear suspension using screw-style under-hoist jack stands (2), then position transmission jack to rear axle assembly.

Fig 7: Rear Axle Forward Mount Isolator & Bolt/Nut
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Remove rear axle forward mount isolator (1) bolt/nut (2).

Fig 8: Rear Axle-to-Crossmember Bolts
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Remove two rear axle-to-crossmember bolts (1).

Fig 9: Propeller Shaft Supported
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Carefully lower rear axle. While lowering axle, separate propeller shaft from axle and support with suitable rope or wire (1).

Fig 10: Halfshaft Removal/Installation
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Lower axle just enough to remove both halfshafts one at a time. Shift axle assembly in one direction, compressing one halfshaft while removing the other (1). Use caution to protect axle seal and journal.

Fig 11: Axle Seal Removal
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Remove axle assembly from vehicle and transfer to bench.
Using suitable screwdriver, remove axle seals and discard.