How to Replace Rear Axle Bearing and Seals: 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500

Watch this video to learn how to replace the rear axle bearing and seals on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500.

Replacing Rear Axle Bearing and Seals on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

• Rear axle bearing
• Rear axle seal
• Brake cleaner

Tightening Torques

• There are no tightening torques for this operation.

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Dodge RAM 1500: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

• Hydraulic jack
• Jack stands
• Wheel lug wrench
• Small crowbar
• Bearing removal tool
• Slide hammer
• Razor blade
• Paper towel

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle. Turn off the engine and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle and open the hood.

Step 2: Access Brake System. Open the brake fluid reservoir. Loosen the wheel lug nuts on the rear wheels.

Step3: Lift and Secure the Vehicle. Lift the rear of your vehicle using a jack. Place the vehicle on jack stands for safety.

Step 4: Remove the wheels to gain full access. Place the removed wheels under the vehicle for added safety.

Step 5: Remove Brake System Components. Remove the brake caliper, brake pads, and brake discs if needed.

Step 6: Access Rear Axle. Locate the rear axle shaft; it is behind the rear brake system. Remove the rear axle shaft to access the rear axle seal and bearing.

Step 7: Remove Rear Axle Seal. Use a small crowbar to lever off the rear axle seal and extract it.

Step 8: Remove Rear Axle Bearing. Use a bearing removal tool to extract the rear axle bearing with a slide hammer. Clean the seal surface with brake cleaner and a paper towel.

Step 9: Insert New Rear Axle Bearing. Ensure the proper orientation of the new rear axle bearing. Use a bearing installation tool and hammer to drive the bearing into position.

Step 10: Install Rear Axle Seal. Fit the new rear axle seal into position using the bearing installation tool and hammer.

Step 11: Reconnect Rear Axle Shaft. Put the rear axle shaft back in place.

Step 12: Reconnect Rear Axle to Differential.

Step 13: Replace the differential fluid in the differential.

Step 14: Replace the brake caliper, pads, and discs if removed.

Step 15: Put the wheels back on your vehicle.

Step 16: Lower the car back to the ground. Properly block the wheels for stability.

Step 17: Replace Brake Fluid Cap. Screw the brake fluid cap back on before starting the car.

Step 18: Before using the vehicle, start the car and pump the brake pedal a few times to push the brake pads together.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles:

• 2009 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2010 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2011 Ram 1500
• 2012 Ram 1500
• 2013 Ram 1500
• 2014 Ram 1500
• 2015 Ram 1500
• 2016 Ram 1500
• 2017 Ram 1500
• 2018 Ram 1500

Important Reminders

Before fitting the rear axle bearing back on, you must clean the seal surface to ensure it is completely impermeable.

Attention! The bearing must be inserted properly. Ensure that you are inserting the side of the bearing that is more rounded on the differential side.

Disclaimer:

This video is for entertainment purposes only. CarParts.com, Inc. disclaims all damages including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, and/or punitive, for any liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or arising from any information or lack thereof posted in this video. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All mechanical car projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. If you are in doubt, please consult a licensed mechanic in your area.