Section 722 (Rear Axle - 230RIA): Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2020 Chrysler 300 and 2019 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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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.

Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING, STANDARD PROCEDURE .
Remove the rear exhaust system. Refer to MUFFLER, EXHAUST, REMOVAL .

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Apply alignment index marks (1) to the driveshaft and the axle flange.

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Remove and discard the driveshaft to axle flange bolts (1) and washers (2) and separate the driveshaft from the rear axle.
NOTE:
Do not allow the driveshaft hang on the center support bearing.

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Support the driveshaft (1) with a strap (2) or equivalent.

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NOTE:
Do not damage the axle seal, axle seal dust cover or halfshaft boot.

NOTE:
Left Hand (LH) side shown in illustration, Right Hand (RH) side similar.
Using a suitable screwdriver (1), partially disengage the halfshafts (2) from the axle assembly.

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If a drive-on hoist is not used, compress the rear suspension (2) using a screw-style under-hoist jack stand (1), and position a transmission jack under the rear axle assembly.

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Position the transmission jack (1) under the rear axle assembly.

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Remove and discard the rear axle forward mount isolator bolts (1).

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Remove the two rear axle to crossmember bolts (1) from the rear axle.

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NOTE:
Left Hand (LH) side shown in illustration, Right Hand (RH) side similar.
Install the Protector, Halfshaft, Drive (special tool #10270, Protector, Half Shaft, Drive) (1).

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NOTE:
Left Hand (LH) side shown in illustration, Right Hand (RH) side similar.
Lower the rear axle (1) approximately six inches and push the rear axle assembly towards the front of the vehicle.

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NOTE:
Do not allow the halfshaft splines to come in contact with the halfshaft seal.
With the aid of an assistant, shift the rear axle assembly in one direction and compress one halfshaft inner joint as far as possible while removing the other halfshaft (1).
Remove the rear axle assembly from vehicle.