Safety First:
* Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. This prevents accidental shorts.
* Support the vehicle securely. Use jack stands, never rely solely on a jack.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: To lift and support the truck.
* Socket wrench set: Including various sizes of metric sockets.
* Ratchet and extensions: For reaching difficult fasteners.
* Torque wrench: Essential for properly tightening bolts after reassembly.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Drain pan: To catch any fluid that might spill.
Procedure:
1. Engage the parking brake firmly.
2. Locate the front driveshaft. It connects the front differential to the transfer case.
3. Disconnect the front driveshaft from the transfer case. This typically involves removing a couple of bolts securing a yoke or slip yoke. Note the orientation of the driveshaft. You may need to mark it to ensure correct reinstallation.
4. Locate the differential. This is the housing at the front end of the front axle.
5. Support the differential. Depending on the design, you might need to secure it to prevent it from falling after the driveshaft is removed.
6. Locate the driveshaft's connection to the differential. This is usually a U-joint.
7. Remove the bolts securing the U-joint to the differential. Apply penetrating oil beforehand if necessary. Let it sit for a while to work its magic.
8. Carefully separate the driveshaft from the differential. Once the bolts are removed, the driveshaft should come off. If it's stuck, gently tap it with a mallet (use a rubber mallet to avoid damage).
9. Inspect the U-joints and the driveshaft for wear and tear. This is a good time to replace them if needed.
10. Clean the area. Remove any dirt or debris.
Reassembly:
Reverse the steps above. Make sure to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
Important Considerations:
* Fluid Leaks: Check for leaks from the differential after disconnecting the driveshaft.
* ABS Sensors: Be mindful of any ABS sensors near the differential. Don't damage them.
* 4x4 System: If you have a more complex 4x4 system, additional steps may be required, such as disconnecting the front axle disconnect system. This varies depending on the specific system your truck has.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with this procedure, it's best to have a qualified mechanic perform the work.
This is a complex procedure and these instructions are not a substitute for a proper repair manual. Always consult the factory service manual for your specific 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 before attempting this repair. Incorrectly performing this work can lead to damage to your vehicle.
