How to remove, replace, and reinstall an axle shaft on 1998 Jeep Wrangler?

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Two types of axleshaft retaining methods are used on the models discussed. The first type involves the axle bearing being pressed onto the axleshaft, retained in the tube by a bearing retaining plate, while the second type has the axle bearing pressed into the axle tube, with the axleshaft retained by C-clip locks in the differential. To identify the type, remove the brake drum and inspect the end of the axle tube behind the axleshaft flange; a visible bearing retaining plate indicates the first type. For models with a bearing retainer, begin by loosening the wheel lug nuts, raising the rear of the vehicle, and removing the wheel and brake drum or disc. Remove the nuts attaching the bearing retainer to the axle tube flange, then use a slide hammer to pull the axleshaft assembly from the axle housing. If the bearing needs replacement, take the assembly to a service department for the old bearing and outer seal to be removed and new ones installed, ensuring the inner seal is also replaced. If the brake backing plate shows signs of leaking differential lubricant, replace the inner axleshaft seal using a slide hammer with an internal puller jaw attachment, and install the new seal with a seal driver or a piece of pipe. Clean the bearing bore in the axle housing, pack the bearing with grease, and apply a thin coat to its outer surface. Smear grease on the lips of the inner seal, guide the axleshaft into the axle housing, and install the retaining nuts for the brake backing plate and bearing retainer, tightening them to the specified torque before sliding the brake drum over the axle flange. For models with C-clips, clean the area where the differential housing cover meets the housing, loosen the cover bolts, and drain the differential lubricant. Remove the housing cover, rotate the axleshaft to access the lock bolt for the differential pinion shaft, and remove it along with the pinion shaft. Push in on the axleshaft to remove the C-clip lock from its groove, then slide the axleshaft out of the axle tube, inspecting the bearing contact surface for wear. If necessary, replace the outer axleshaft seal. To install a new bearing, use a bearing removal tool set, ensuring the new axleshaft bearing is properly seated in the axle tube bore without damaging the new axleshaft seal. Install the new seal using a seal installation tool, clean the bearing bore in the axle housing, pack the bearing with grease, and guide the axleshaft into the axle tube, engaging its splines with the differential side gear. Install the C-clip lock in the recessed groove on the axleshaft, insert the pinion shaft into the differential carrier, and secure it with the lock bolt. Reinstall the differential housing cover, brake drum, wheel, and lug nuts, tightening them securely. Refill the differential housing with the specified lubricant and test drive the vehicle to ensure proper operation of the brakes and axle, making several slow figure-eight turns if equipped with Trac-Lok to ensure the new lubricant circulates through the clutch discs.

Genuine 1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Shaft

8 Axle Shafts found

1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Shaft Rear Right, Right

1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Assembly (Right Front)

1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Shaft Rear Left

1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Shaft

1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Shaft Front Driver Left Side Hand

1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Shaft Assembly

1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Shaft Assembly

1998 Jeep Wrangler Rear Axle Assembly (Left)

1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Shaft

1998 Jeep Wrangler Axle Shaft Parts Questions & Experts Answers

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