I'm in the process of replacing the rotors/pads on the front of my '96 4x4, and there was also a click from the driver's front wheel which I tracked to a bad u-joint.

I finally got the hub off last night and removed the axle to get the u-joint out. The u-joint clips were really rusted in place, but an air chisel and lots of PB Blaster helped get those clips off and let me remove the u-joint. Reassembly will start this weekend.

On the outer axle (that goes through the hub), there is a metal lip/shield/seal where the axle meets the hub. This is the original axle stub, so that lip/shield/seal is corroded and slightly deteriorated. It looks like it slips over the end of the axle stub, but I can't find where it is available as a separate piece for replacement. I think if you really want to replace that, you have to replace the axle stub - anyone have BTDT experience with that lip/shield/seal? I'm thinking that I should be OK to reuse the axle stub as-is, but just wanted to see if someone else has experience. A picture would help here, I know, so I'll try and add one to this post tonight.

Also, are there thoughts on what-all surfaces should get anti-sieze (regular or copper-based) when I reassemble everything? I'm thinking the hub to steering knuckle surfaces and the stub-axle to bearing/hub surfaces, as well as where the u-joint fits in the flanges.

Lastly, anyone have a good source for new brake rotor shields?

Thanks!

 

Speaking of front U-joints, I need to replace my drivers side wheel joint again (97 1500 4x4) Having trouble finding the DIY link for that. Can anyone provide?

 

If you don't already have one, grab the appropriate service manual for your truck from here.

 

Only use spicer u joints unless you like doing the job multiple times. The one on the right is proof.

 

So the "pavement sucks" tech articles are no longer available online?

 

Dust shield?? https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...e-shields.html