Mopar 68639173AA Service Rear Axle

Removal steps 1. Park on level ground, chock remaining wheels, engage parking brake, wear eye protection and gloves. 2. Raise and support the vehicle securely on jack stands at appropriate support points; never rely on a jack alone. 3. Remove the wheel(s) to access the axle area. 4. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. 5. If the axle removal will open the differential or hub, drain the differential/axle housing fluid into a suitable container to avoid spills. 6. Disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the axle (ABS/speed sensor or similar) and secure wiring away from the work area. 7. Remove or move aside brake components and any suspension or hub parts that interfere with axle removal; support brake calipers and avoid stressing hoses. 8. Remove axle retaining hardware as applicable (axle nut, retainer bolts, C-clip, cotter pin, etc.); designs vary, so identify the retaining method before removing. 9. Support the hub or differential output to carry driveline weight. 10. Carefully slide or pull the axle shaft out of the hub and differential; if it's stuck, use an appropriate puller and avoid prying on seals or splines. 11. Inspect the removed axle's splines, shaft, bearings and seals for damage and contamination; clean the area and collect any remaining fluid. Installation steps 1. Replace any worn seals or bearings before installation; clean and inspect mating surfaces thoroughly. 2. Lightly coat splines and seal lips with the manufacturer-recommended lubricant before assembly. 3. Carefully align the axle splines and insert the shaft into the differential and hub until fully seated; do not force if resistance is felt-realign and try again. 4. Reinstall the axle retaining devices (axle nut, retainer bolts, C-clip, cotter pin, etc.) and tighten to the vehicle manufacturer's specified procedure and torque. 5. Reinstall brake, hub and any suspension components removed earlier, and reconnect electrical connectors. 6. Refill the differential/axle housing with the correct fluid to the proper level using the specified fluid. 7. Reinstall the wheel(s), lower the vehicle, and reconnect the negative battery terminal. 8. Start the vehicle and check for leaks, unusual noises or binding; perform a careful road test to confirm normal operation. 9. After a short test drive, recheck fasteners and fluid level and correct as needed. Repair tip: Mark axle orientation and note any shims or spacers during removal so you can reinstall in the same configuration; replace single-use items (cotter pins, some axle nuts) with new parts.