When I drive I hear a knocking metal sound from the drivers side wheel area.. I crawled underneath the truck and felt the u joint, it seemed to be all right, but the shaft going into the diff was loose knocking against the housing(tube). Is this the axle if so what does it take to replace it. Thanks

 

I suggest you get a Haynes manual and download the service manual from the FAQ/DIY section. This will help also, but dont ignore getting the manuals. http://www.pavementsucks.com/tech-article-5.html

 

thanks will do..

 

I had this problem on my ram 1500 sport 98 the second day after i bought it it started. My u-joint was bad however it all came from the half axle shaft slidding in and out making the noise when we whent to put the axle shaft we realized the axle housing was bad and thats why the shaft kept slipping.

 

thanks for the input, is the ujoint all I need to replace..if the hubs are good..axle should be ok right..LOL hoping

 

Maybe a worn axle seal?

 

+1... If it's that bad, the seal is most likely damaged too.

 

geez, seal in the diff.?

 

Unfortunately, yes.....

 

I think this repair is getting bigger than me..may have to call the pros..LOL Thanks guys