This procedure covers the removal and installation of the rear driveshaft on a 2014 Ram 2500 with 6.7L Cummins diesel engine and 4WD configuration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear driveshaft assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent
• U-joint strap bolts/nuts (if reusing driveshaft) × 8 — M10 fasteners
• Center support bearing and bracket (if equipped) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Chock front wheels to prevent vehicle movement
3. Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack and support securely on jack stands under frame rails
4. Allow exhaust system to cool completely if vehicle was recently driven
5. Spray all fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark driveshaft alignment
   Using a marker or paint pen, mark the relationship between the driveshaft and the rear differential pinion yoke. Also mark the relationship between the driveshaft and the transfer case output flange if equipped with a two-piece driveshaft with center support bearing. These alignment marks are critical for preventing driveline vibration upon reassembly. Make clear, visible marks on both mating flanges.
2. 2

   Support driveshaft weight
   Position a transmission jack or have an assistant ready to support the driveshaft weight. The rear driveshaft on this vehicle weighs approximately 30-40 pounds and is awkward to handle. Supporting it prevents sudden drops that could cause injury or damage.
3. 3

   Remove rear U-joint straps at differential
   Remove the four bolts securing the U-joint straps at the rear differential pinion yoke. These are typically 1/2 inch or 13mm bolts. Keep the straps and hardware organized for reinstallation. Once bolts are removed, the driveshaft rear end will separate from the differential. Support the driveshaft to prevent it from dropping.
   ⚠Do not allow the U-joint caps to separate from the yoke during removal. If caps fall off, needle bearings will scatter and the U-joint will need replacement.
4. 4

   Remove center support bearing (if equipped)
   If your vehicle has a two-piece driveshaft with center support bearing, remove the center support bearing mounting bolts from the crossmember. There are typically 2-4 bolts securing the bearing bracket to the frame crossmember. Support the driveshaft sections as you remove these bolts.
5. 5

   Remove front U-joint connection
   Remove the four bolts securing the front U-joint straps at the transfer case output flange. Use the same procedure as the rear connection. Once removed, carefully slide the driveshaft slip yoke out of the transfer case output shaft. Some transmission fluid may drip from the transfer case output - have a drain pan ready.
   ℹ️A small amount of transfer case fluid leakage is normal when removing the slip yoke. Have a drain pan positioned to catch any fluid.
6. 6

   Lower and remove driveshaft assembly
   Carefully lower the driveshaft assembly from the vehicle. Maneuver it around the exhaust system and other components. Be careful not to damage the U-joints or slip yoke splines during removal. Place the driveshaft on a clean work surface.
7. 7

   Inspect components
   With the driveshaft removed, inspect all U-joints for play, roughness, or wear. Check the slip yoke splines for wear or damage. Inspect the center support bearing (if equipped) for noise or roughness by rotating it by hand. Check the pinion yoke and transfer case output flange for wear or damage. Replace any worn components now to avoid premature failure. Clean all mating surfaces with a wire brush.
8. 8

   Prepare driveshaft for installation
   If reusing the original driveshaft, clean the slip yoke splines and apply a light coat of transfer case fluid or appropriate spline lubricant. Do not use heavy grease as it can attract debris. If installing a new driveshaft, ensure all U-joints are properly greased per manufacturer specifications. Verify balance weights are present and secure.
9. 9

   Install driveshaft and align front connection
   Raise the driveshaft assembly into position. Carefully slide the slip yoke into the transfer case output shaft. Ensure the splines engage fully. Align the front U-joint with the transfer case output flange, matching any alignment marks made during disassembly. Position the U-joint bearing caps into the flange yoke ears.
10. 10

    Install front U-joint straps
    Install the U-joint straps and bolts at the transfer case connection. Thread all four bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Torque the bolts evenly in a cross pattern to specification. This ensures even pressure on the U-joint caps and prevents binding.
11. 11

    Install center support bearing (if equipped)
    If equipped with a two-piece driveshaft, align the center support bearing bracket with the mounting holes in the crossmember. Install the mounting bolts and torque to specification. Ensure the bearing is properly seated and aligned before final tightening.
12. 12

    Connect and secure rear U-joint
    Align the rear U-joint with the differential pinion yoke, matching the alignment marks made during disassembly. Position the bearing caps into the yoke ears. Install the U-joint straps and bolts. Thread all bolts by hand first, then torque evenly in a cross pattern to specification.
    ⚠Verify alignment marks match exactly. Misalignment will cause severe driveline vibration and accelerated wear.
13. 13

    Verify installation
    Rotate the driveshaft by hand to ensure it moves freely without binding or unusual resistance. Check that all U-joint straps are properly seated and torqued. Verify the center support bearing (if equipped) is secure and the driveshaft has proper clearance from exhaust components, frame rails, and other nearby parts throughout its full range of motion.

Reassembly

1. Double-check all torque specifications have been met, especially U-joint strap bolts
2. Verify all alignment marks are properly matched
3. Ensure no tools or parts were left under the vehicle
4. Lower vehicle from jack stands carefully

Verification

• Start the engine and shift through all gears to verify proper operation
• Test drive the vehicle at various speeds (15-70 mph) and listen for any unusual vibrations, clunks, or noises
• Pay special attention to vibrations during acceleration and deceleration
• Perform a final inspection of all mounting points after test drive to ensure nothing has loosened
• Check transfer case fluid level and top off if necessary after test drive

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