I just purchased 2 U joints for my 2001 dodge ram and according to the manaul you have to disconnect the rear propeller diconnected from the rear end. We unbolted the 4 bolts that hold the propeller and u joint to the rear end but we can not get the propeller from the rear end. Does anyone know if there is a hint or special way to do these u joints...I've already did a search on it and found nothing but how to change them once the drive shaft is out but we just can't get the drive shaft out...I've tried saturating it with penetrating oil and using a rubber mallot with it but still nothing...please help!

 

I believe that'd be bolted from the inside of the pumpkin.

 

OnceI have the U-joint straps off I usually place a pry bar or long thick screwdriver between the pinion nut and the U-joint and pull.
They can be stubborn but I never had one I couldn't remove.
Put a pan under the transfer case. Some fluid might spill out when you remove the prop shaft.
Good Luck

 

Once you remove the two u-bolts from around the rear u-joint, the driveshaftwill slide forward into the transfer case/transmission and the u-joint will detach from the pinion yoke. Rabblers comment of using a pry bar usually works for me also. Sometimes it really gets stuck in there.

 

I had to remove the rear drive shaft not to long ago.. 2001 2wd. I needed a big pry bar.. an a big hammer!

 

awesome thank you guys for your help I got it out now...I really appreciate it.