This outlines the general steps involved; however, specific procedures may vary slightly depending on the axle configuration (Dana 35, Chrysler 8.25, etc.) your Cherokee has. Always consult a repair manual specific to your Jeep's year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. These specifications are crucial to avoid damage and ensure safety.
Tools and Equipment Needed (partial list - you'll need more):
* Jack and jack stands (sufficient capacity for the vehicle's weight)
* Wheel chocks
* Socket set (metric)
* Wrenches (metric)
* Torque wrench
* Axle stands or equivalent support
* Penetrating oil
* Drain pan
* Gear oil (correct type and amount for your axle)
* New axle seals and gaskets (if applicable)
* Possibly a transmission jack (depending on how you support the drivetrain)
* Safety glasses
* Gloves
* Repair manual specific to your 1994 Jeep Cherokee
General Steps (Simplified):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Chock the front wheels and securely support the vehicle on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheels: Remove the rear wheels.
3. Disconnect Driveshaft: Disconnect the driveshaft from the differential. This usually involves removing a yoke and u-bolts. Mark the orientation of the driveshaft before disconnecting to ensure proper reinstallation.
4. Disconnect Brake Lines and Cables: Carefully disconnect the brake lines and emergency brake cables from the axle housing. You'll likely need a flare nut wrench and may need to bleed the brakes afterward.
5. Drain the Differential Fluid: Drain the gear oil from the differential using the drain plug.
6. Disconnect Shocks and Springs (Possibly): Depending on the specific design, you may need to disconnect the shocks and possibly even the leaf springs to provide sufficient clearance to remove the axle.
7. Remove the Axle: Carefully remove the nuts and bolts holding the axle housing to the vehicle's frame or body. This will often involve removing the U-bolts holding the leaf springs and possibly other mounting brackets. The axle assembly can be quite heavy, so have assistance if needed.
8. Install the New Axle: Reverse the removal procedure to install the new axle. Pay close attention to the proper orientation of the axle.
9. Reconnect Everything: Reconnect the driveshaft, brake lines, emergency brake cables, shocks, springs (if removed), and any other components.
10. Refill the Differential: Refill the differential with the correct type and amount of gear oil.
11. Bleed the Brakes (if necessary): If you disconnected the brake lines, you'll need to bleed the brakes to remove any air trapped in the system.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle.
13. Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts and nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque settings. This is absolutely critical to prevent future failures and ensure safety.
Important Considerations:
* Axle Type: Identifying the correct axle for your Jeep Cherokee is essential. Different models had different axle types (Dana 35, Chrysler 8.25, etc.) with varying bolt patterns, gear ratios, and components.
* Parts Sourcing: Ensure you get the correct replacement parts for your specific axle.
* Professional Help: This is a complex job. If you lack experience, seek professional help from a qualified mechanic to avoid potential damage to your vehicle or injury to yourself.
This is a highly simplified overview. A detailed repair manual is absolutely necessary for this job. Improperly completing this repair could result in serious damage to your vehicle or injury. Safety should be your utmost priority.
