Rear Drive Axle (8 1/2"): Installation
- Install pinion gear, bearings, slinger, dustcap and seal if removed. Adjust pinion gear preload if required. See REASSEMBLY
under OVERHAUL.
- Reinstall housing spreader tool and dial indicator on axle housing. Spread housing no more than .015" (.38 mm) to install drive axle assembly. Install necessary shims and install drive axle assembly. If necessary, tap bearing cups in with soft faced mallet to seat them.
Courtesy of CHRYSLER MOTORS.
- Install bearing caps in their proper locations and tighten cap bolts to 57 ft. lbs. (77 N.m). Remove housing spreader tool and dial indicator. Align and connect drive shaft and tighten U-joint clamp bolts to 14 ft. lbs. (19 N.m).
- Apply a bead of silicone sealer to cover mounting surface of axle housing. Install cover and tighten cover bolts to 35 ft. lbs. (47 N.m). Fill axle with required lubricant.
- Install axle shafts. Install brake drums and wheels and tighten wheel nuts to 75 ft. lbs. (102 N.m). Add required amount of fluid and lower vehicle.