I have a 2003 Dakota 4x4, 4.7 engine. I`m new to the site, lots of great info here, thanks to all. I need to replace the front axel seals, I`ve been in there before to replace both front wheel bearings. My question is...Is there enough slippage in the Axel to pull it away from the housing without removing it completely to change the seal? When I did the front wheel bearings there was a lot of play in the axel as I was able to push it all the way thru the bearing assembly. Also on rockauto the axels are cheap, I think I should replace them as I have 97k on the truck. Any agreement on that? Thanks in advance for any input. Peter

 

If you are changing the inner seals, you need to pull the axles to do so. Since you are going to have the axles out anyway....... and if you have the cash, might just as well put in new ones.

Welcome to DF!

 

Thanks for the info. I will replace them when I do the seals.