How to Replace Rear Driveshaft: 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500

Watch this video to learn how to replace the rear driveshaft on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500.

Replacing Rear Driveshaft 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

• Driveshaft
• Threadlocker

Tightening Torques

• Driveshaft center support bearing mounting bolts : 40 Ft-lbs

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
• Breaker bar
• 15mm socket
• Plastic fork
• Flat head screwdriver
• Hammer
• Torque wrench
  • 20 to 250 Ft-lbs
  • 100 to 600 Ft-lbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

• Turn off the engine and set the parking brake.
• Lift the rear of your vehicle and secure it on jack stands.

Step 2: Remove Driveshaft Bolts

• Use a breaker bar and a 15mm socket to unscrew three accessible bolts attaching the driveshaft to the rear differential.

Step 3: Access the Fourth Bolt

• Manually put the vehicle in “Neutral.”
• Use a plastic fork to remove the plastic cover above the parking brake.
• Use a flat head screwdriver to push the locking pin, pull on the strap, and rotate the driveshaft to access the fourth bolt.

Step 4: Unscrew the Fourth Bolt

• Put the Neutral lever back in place.
• Unscrew the fourth bolt.

Step 5: Remove Driveshaft

• Use a hammer to disengage the driveshaft from the rear differential.
• Pull the driveshaft from the front differential.

Step 6: Install New Driveshaft

• Insert the new driveshaft into the front differential.
• Position the driveshaft on the rear differential.

Step 7: Secure Driveshaft Bolts

• Apply threadlocker to the driveshaft retaining bolts.
• Screw the first two bolts back on and tighten using a torque wrench.

Step 8: Adjust Position for Last Two Bolts

• Return the vehicle to “Neutral” via the manual lever.
• Rotate the driveshaft to access the last two bolts.
• Finish tightening the last two bolts with a torque wrench.

Step 9: Lower Your Vehicle

• Lower your vehicle to the ground.
• Your driveshaft replacement is now complete.

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

To access the fourth bolt, it is necessary to manually put the vehicle on “Neutral”.

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.