Front outer axles replacement - help needed...

[2X]

If I understand correctly the outer front axles are the same and can both be replaced using the same part ... passenger side axle... (without replacing the driver side horizontal inner axle part)...?

I have found excellent step by step instructions here... for the driver side...

Does anyone know how much time/labor a mechanic might estimate to do one side?

Anyone with experience in DIY and how much time is involved?

Anyone know of HD front axle options?

Please let me know if I understand this correctly.

Thanks

Ro

[Mile High VX]

I paid about $580 for a local shop in CO to do my drivers side.

I don't know of any HD options and have not seen anyone post about any either.

[JoFotoz]

I recommend using Surtrack (axles) half Shafts...as long as you dont do really gnarly rock crawling..
..or run 33 inch tires or bigger.
YES..identical both sides.
I've done many..it takes me about 1.5 hours per side..mechanic should not charge more than 2 hours IMO..
..its an easy-ish job.

Link :-
https://www.amazon.com/SurTrack-IZ-8...ype=automotive

Cheers

jo

[2X]

Thanks for the information...

So far... one shop says 4 1/2 hrs per side... though says he cannot figure out why the “book” says that amount of time... Says, he needs to research more...

Another shop in Bozeman made famous by YouTube overland show using the shop...
This shop says after careful research... only 6 1/2 hrs per side ... axles $180.00 and $160.00...
$1,600.00 both sides...

Ordered Surtrack axles already... going to order tool for releasing ball joint...

Then get a friend over and spend some time wrenching...

[2X]

So, what front axles (brand) with 33” tires is best...?

I have two sets of wheels... both 18”... 33” and 30” tires...

3 1/2 lift... down from 4” lift...

New OME shocks, springs.. SwayAway torsion bars( last set from old stock)

Just inherited the truck from my brother... 20,000 miles... supercharged... no leaks... runs great... Cruise control looks like it is working but not...

Replaced windshield...

Switched rear door for an exterior spare tire modified rear door...

[2X]

2 axles and one ball joint tool... total ~$90.00...

[2X]

Thanks

[JoFotoz]

Stock/OEM are best for 33's or above.. if you wheel hard.
The Surtrack are the best in terms of tolerance and OEM specs...
..however I know two people that have sheared the hub end off..ME for one !
Thats running 35's..and wheeling really hard.

So, what front axles (brand) with 33” tires is best...?

I have two sets of wheels... both 18”... 33” and 30” tires...

3 1/2 lift... down from 4” lift...

[JoFotoz]

Quick "HOW To"..for half shaft change :-

Jack up /remove tire.......undo and remove the 4 x 17mm lower "A" arm outer end bolts.... and disconnect the Tie rod..
....and remove retaining clip from half shaft stub at hub end...where it pokes through hub.

Grab the hub pull towards you and swing out and to the right..allowing axle stub to be pulled from Hub.
THEN..remove inner boot..and using finger..dental tool/pick...remove retaining ring from inside lip of the "Green Cup" that the inboard end of half shaft seats in to.

Then..simply locate new half shaft..reverse process , tighten down boot clamps etc..and bingo

A couple of hours first time with the right tools..dont forget you'll need a banding tool to secure boot clamps.

Those price quotes you got are outrageous... !!!

Cheers
jo

[Nikad92397]

Amazon has been out of the axles at that price for a minute.. Rock Auto is real close on the price.. check your shipping.
https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...+assembly,2288

[2X]

Thanks Jo...

[FlyingV77]

so yall are saying OEM is better than aftermarket?
3" lift and mine bind when turning.