1989 Dodge Spirit front drive axle

METALDODGE

MEMBER
1989 DODGE SPIRIT
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
118,000 MILES

I have a 89 dodge spirit and when I turn right and accelerate there is I knocking from the front driver side. I took my car into tires plus and they said I need a new drive axle and I was wondering if I could do this my self with basic tools I have never done this before but I am good at mechanical things. I can do most external engine stuff but I have never had to mess with the drive train and I was also wondering if I need a whole new axle or just a boot and if I should do the other side as well. Thank you

1 Reply

BMRFIXIT

MECHANIC
19,053 POSTS

Replace the axle as a unit
need more that basic tools

1. Remove axle nut. Raise and support vehicle. If removing right axle shaft, remove speedometer pinion assembly from transaxle. Tap axle shaft end lightly with brass hammer to free axle shaft from hub splines. Remove lower ball joint clamp bolt. Separate lower ball joint from steering knuckle.
NOTE: Remove speedometer drive pinion before removing right axle shaft.
2. Pull out on hub/steering knuckle assembly and separate axle shaft from hub. Grasp both CV joints at outer housings to prevent separation and pull axle shaft out of transaxle or intermediate shaft. Remove axle shaft from vehicle.