axle joint...the u-joint that connects the axle shaft to the hub assembly on 4wd models. I didn't see if you have 4wd or not. If not, ignore my comment.

 

That's what I thought. I have 2WD.

 

please take lots of pictures I would love to see the process Im considering doing some of the same replacements

 

Already planning on it. I cancelled my other Internet service and lost my hosting space, so all pictures in my engine threads are gone. I am going to set up a Photobucket account and repost all of my images there.

 

Rock Auto kicks ***. Check out my order details:
PartNumber PartTypePriceEACoreEA QuantityTotal 0 No Vehicle Specified WAGNERF79768$8.68$0.002$17.36 1997 DODGE RAM 1500 PICKUP 5.2L 318cid V8 MFI (Y) BCAA5Wheel Bearing$7.96$0.002$15.92 BCAA3Wheel Bearing$7.29$0.002$14.58 DORMAN38522Tailgate Support Cable$7.93$0.002$15.86 MOOGK7239Pitman Arm$67.79$0.001$67.79 MOOGK7206TBall Joint$52.79$0.002$105.58 MOOGES3171RLTTie Rod End$50.99$0.002$101.98 MOOGK7271Ball Joint$57.79$0.002$115.58 MOOGK7217TIdler Arm$61.79$0.001$61.79 MOOGES3172RLTTie Rod End$48.79$0.002$97.58 RAYBESTOSBD369MBrake Pad$45.79$0.002$91.58 WAGNERBD125390Rotor$84.79$0.002$169.58 Shipping$60.11 Order Total$935.29
Even with shipping, the total was much less than what I was quoted by O'Reilly Auto Parts. A quote, BTW, that did not include the rotors, pads, and tailgate straps.