Hi to all:
Thanks to all the inputs that I receive from you. I was able to replace the Hub bearing assembly of my 2001 Dakota a very low cost. Thank you again.
I have two more issues.
1- There is a small play on my wheel steering. It’s about ½” of play. What could it be?
2- How do I replace the Drive Shaft in my 2001 Dodge Dakota 4x4 Automatic Transmission?
All your help will be more than appreciate.
Thank you
Luis

 

1. Could be ball joints, or tie rod ends. Could also be the rack, but the likely hood of it being a rack issue is less than that of a ball joint/tie rod end problem.
2. Curious - Why are you replacing the entire drive shaft? You probably just need new u joints, and if thats the case, theres no need to replace the entire shaft.
However, you answer your question, it's really easy to replace, but I can only give you generic instructions, not sure the exact procedure for Dakotas, or if it's different slightly. Basically, put the e-brake on, and chock the front wheels. Put the transmission in neutral. Put the transfer case in neutral, if 4x4. On the rear end, un-do the clips on the u-joint to drop that end of the shaft, then pull it out of the transmission end. There ya go, she's out. Installation is the reverse of the that.
Again, generic instructions, Couple things may be slightly different, but this is the basic way to do it.

 

Thank you for all the tips. I will lilke to replace the drive shaft because it was recomended by the dealer ship. BUt I do not think that has something to do with the steering wheel play.
Last week, the dealership replace the upper ball joint (Factory recall), so should I focus on the tie rod end?
Related to the shaft, and under your suggestion, I will investigate the u joint.
Thank you for your time. If you have a chance, try to reply to see if I'm going in the right direction. Once again, Thank you
Luis

 

Yeah, focus on the tie rod ends, and also check for wheel bearing play. Also, though since it's only about 1/2" of play, it might be normal. If the front end is tight, the wheel bearings are good, and the ball joints are good, then it's probably a normal condition.

I'm kinda curious why the dealership recommended replacing the entire drive shaft... Seems odd to me. Is it overly rusty? Is it thin? I had a rotted out Ramcharger, the body panels were literally falling off, in chunks or pieces, and that drive shaft was fine...