I have a 1999 dodge ram 1500 4x4 5.2l, my left upper ball joint seems to be worn out on the axle assembly, I have a dana M44F with a 3.55 gear ratio, the 8th vin is y, can I use the front axle assembly with the 8th letter being a z if the gear ratio are the same ?

 

Yes, it'll be the same axle. But, why don't you just replace the ball joint??

 

The ball joint is not worn, its actually the "housing" on the axle assembly that seems to let the ball joint work its way out

 

I can see how that could be a problem. One option would be to tack weld the ball joint in place..... What year is the donor axle?

 

I found the matching axle assembly, thanks for the info