1999 DODGE RAM oil type

1) Manufacturer recommends flushing contaminated system using
one gallon of Ford A/C System Flushing Solvent (F4AZ-19579-A), a
Filter (FL-1A), an A/C Flusher Fitting Kit (014-00992). DO NOT reuse\
flushing solvent and filter, they are intended to be used on one
vehicle only.
2) Discharge A/C system, using approved refrigerant
recovery/recycling equipment. Flush specified A/C components using A/C
System Flusher (014-00991), according to manufacturer's operating
instructions.
3) If an A/C system flusher is not available to clean A/C
system, an in-line filter kit can be used. Filter kit is installed
before replacement compressor, accumulator/receiver-drier, muffler,
and thermal expansion valve/fixed orifice tube have been installed.
4) Filter kits are used with either a rubber lined suction
hose or with a nylon lined suction hose located between compressor and
evaporator. Rubber lined hose has a wall thickness of 1/4" and nylon
lined hose has a wall thickness of 1/8". See Fig. 22.
5) The filter kit for either type hose has 2 filters. A
temporary pancake filter and a permanent in-line suction filter.
Pancake filter is temporarily installed between condenser and
condenser-to-evaporator line. See Fig. 23. Permanent filter is
installed in suction line between accumulator and compressor.
6) Install replacement components (compressor, accumulator
and fixed orifice) with correct amount of refrigerant oil. See
COMPRESSOR REFRIGERANT OIL CHECKING article.
7) Cut suction hose between compressor and accumulator
(closer to compressor). Remove a length of suction hose to accommodate\
suction filter. Measure side wall of suction hose and install
appropriate filter with "O" rings and filter clamps. If side wall is
1/4", use in-line filter labeled USE WITH RUBBER INNER LINED HOSE. If
side wall is 1/8", use in-line filter labeled USE WITH NYLON INNER
LINED HOSE. Ensure arrow on filter is pointing in direction of
refrigerant flow. Tighten hose clamps to 54 INCH lbs. (6 N.m). See
Fig. 22 .
8) Install pancake filter in liquid line between condenser
and condenser-to-evaporator line. Ensure filter inlet (label) is
toward condenser. Evacuate, charge, and leak test A/C system. See
EVACUATING A/C SYSTEM, CHARGING A/C SYSTEM and LEAK TESTING. Check
filters and hoses for clearance from other engine components. Use tie
straps if necessary.
9) Place an external cooling fan in front of radiator. Select
MAX A/C operation and set blower motor speed to maximum. Start engine
and allow to idle. Ensure A/C is operating properly. Slowly increase
engine speed to 800 RPM, then 1000 RPM, and then to 1200 RPM. With
engine speed set to 1200 RPM, operate engine for one hour with A/C
system operating.
10) Stop engine. Discharge A/C system, using approved
refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Remove pancake filter, hoses
and fittings. Discard pancake filter. Reconnect liquid line, evacuate,
charge, and leak test A/C system. Ensure A/C system is operating
properly.

be detected if leak testing is performed too quickly.
BUBBLE DETECTOR LEAK TESTING PROCEDURE
This leak detection method is recommended when it is
impossible or difficult to determine the exact location of the leak
using other methods. Although commercial bubble detectors are more
effective, household soap solutions may be used.
Using the dauber that comes with the commercial soap
solution, apply the solution to all joints, connections, fittings or
controls where a leak might be suspected. If high-suds household
solutions are used, apply them with a small brush. Wherever bubbles
form, leaks are present and must be repaired. check the entire system
as there may be more than one leak.
ELECTRONIC LEAK TESTING PROCEDURE
NOTE: Some electronic leak detectors will function on only R-12
systems or on only R-134a systems, and some will function on
both R-12 and R-134a systems. Familiarize yourself with the
tester being used and know what type of system you are leak
testing.
Electronic leak detectors should be used in well ventilated
areas. Avoid using them around explosive gases. Always follow
manufacturer's instructions for the specific tester being used. If
none are available, proceed as follows:
1) Turn all controls and detector sensitivity knob to OFF
position or zero setting. Connect leak detector to an approved source
of power. Turn switch ON, and allow unit to warm up for approximately
5 minutes.
2) Check operation of tester by positioning probe in a
reference source where refrigerant is known to be present in small
amounts. Adjust controls and sensitivity knob until detector reacts
properly. Move probe away from refrigerant source and the reaction
should stop. If it continues, adjust the sensitivity knob to a lower
setting.
3) When tester reacts properly, leak test air conditioning
system by moving probe UNDER all components, fittings and connections.
Keep the probe moving. To check evaporator insert probe into drain
tube opening or a heater duct. DO NOT allow probe to contact
refrigerant or refrigerant oil. When leaks are found, repair them as
necessary. Keep in mind that there may be more than one leak.
DYE SOLUTION LEAK TESTING PROCEDURES
CAUTION: Dye-charged refrigerant cans are available to be used as
internal leak detectors. The use of this type of solution may
void some manufacturer's warranties. Be sure to check with
the A/C system manufacturer concerning the use of dye-charged
leak detectors. Dyes which work in R-12 systems will not work
in R-134a systems.
The following procedure is for introducing a dye solution,
not dye-charged refrigerant, into A/C system.
1) Connect manifold gauge set to air conditioning system in a
normal manner. Remove center hose from manifold gauge set, and replace
it with a short piece (6" long) of 1/4" tubing using two 1/4" flare
nuts. Connect a container of dye solution to the tubing.
2) Connect one end of gauge set center hose to dye solution
container. Connect a container of refrigerant to the other end of the
hose. Operate engine at idle speed. Set the air conditioning system
for maximum cooling. Slowly open the low-side hand valve to allow the


DRIV E A XLE - F B I S EM I- F LO ATIN G
1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
1998-99 DRIVE AXLES
CHRY - FBI Semi-Floating Axles
Ram Pickup
IDENTIFICATION
DRIVE AXLE APPLICATION








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Application Axle Ring Axle
Model Gear Size Ratio
Front Axle ........ 216 FBI ......... 8.50" .. 3.54, 3.92 & 4.09
Front Axle ........ 248 FBI ......... 9.75" ........ 3.54 & 4.10









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DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
The Front Beam-Design Iron (FBI) axles is of an iron center
casting (differential housing) with axle shaft tubes extending from
both sides. The tubes are pressed in to form a one-piece axle housing
and is a semi-floating design.
Axle contains an integral carrier with hypoid-type ring gear
and pinion with semi-floating axle shafts. Load is supported by hub
bearings. Axle shafts are retained by nuts at the hub bearings. Hub
bearings are bolted to steering knuckle at outboard end of axle tube
yoke. Hub bearings are serviced as an assembly. On vehicles equipped
with Anti-Lock (ABS) brakes, a brake sensor is mounted on knuckle
assemblies, and tone rings are pressed onto axle shaft.
Differential is a one-piece design and differential pinion
mate shaft is retained with a roll pin. Differential bearing preload
and ring gear backlash is adjusted by use of shims, and pinion bearing
preload is set and maintained by use of a collapsible spacer.
Axle shaft is engaged or disengaged by an axle vacuum shift
motor. Vacuum shift motor is operated by engine vacuum and is
controlled by a switch mounted on transfer case.
AXLE RATIO & IDENTIFICATION
NOTE: Axle ratio can be identified by axle identification tag
attached to axle housing cover. See IDENTIFICATION.
LUBRICATION
CAPACITY
DRIVE AXLE CAPACITY ( 1)








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Application Pts. (L)\
216 FBI .................................................. 4.8 (2.3)\
248 FBI .................................................. 7.6 (3.6)\
(1) - Approximate drive axle capacity listed. Lubricant level should
be 1/2" below oil filler hole in axle housing cover.









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FLUID TYPE
Use SAE 80W-90 or 90W hypoid gear lubricant with MIL-L-2105-C
and API GL-5 ratings.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
NOTE: See appropriate table in TROUBLE SHOOTING article in GENERAL
INFORMATION.
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
AXLE SHAFT & HUB BEARING
Removal
1) Raise and support vehicle. Remove wheel. Remove brake
caliper with hose attached, and secure aside. DO NOT allow brake
caliper to hang by brake hose. Remove brake rotor. Remove ABS wheel
speed sensor (if equipped). Remove grease cap from center of front
hub. Remove cotter pin from end of axle shaft. Remove axle nut and
washer.
2) Remove hub/bearing assembly-to-knuckle bolts. Remove
hub/bearing assembly from steering knuckle and axle shaft. Remove
brake dust shield. To remove right (passenger-side) axle shaft,
carefully pull axle shaft from axle housing.
NOTE: Left axle shaft will disengage from collar located on
intermediate axle shaft.
3) To remove left (driver's side) axle shaft, disconnect
electrical connector and vacuum hoses at vacuum shift motor. Remove
bolts, vacuum shift motor and gasket. Carefully pull axle shaft from
axle housing and collar on intermediate axle shaft.
Installation
1) Install NEW oil seal on axle shaft with seal lip facing
toward splines on differential end of axle shaft. Coat seal lip with
wheel bearing grease.
2) Install right axle shaft into axle housing. Ensure axle
shaft engages with side gears in differential.
3) To install left axle shaft, ensure collar is engaged with
splines on intermediate axle shaft. Install left axle shaft into axle
housing. Ensure axle shaft engages with splines on collar. Install
vacuum shift motor, ensuring fork on vacuum shift motor engages groove
on collar. Install and tighten bolts to specification. See TORQUE
SPECIFICATIONS table.
4) To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Apply
silicone rubber sealant to edge of grease cap before installing.
Tighten bolts/nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table.
DRIVE SHAFT
Removal
1) Raise and support vehicle. Ensure transmission and
transfer selector levers case are in Neutral. Reference mark drive
shaft and pinion flange for reassembly reference.
2) Remove bolts and "U" joint straps at pinion flange. Remove
center carrier bearing bolts (if equipped). Remove drive shaft.
CAUTION: The "U" joint components are not serviceable. Replace
complete assembly. DO NOT reuse.

(1) - Approximate drive axle capacity listed. Lubricant level should
be within 1/2" below bottom of oil filler hole in axle housing
cover.
( 2) - Add container of Mopar Gear Oil Friction Modifier when
refilling.









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FLUID TYPE
Use SAE 80W-90 or SAE 90W hypoid gear lubricant with MIL-L-
2105-B and API GL-5 ratings. Also add a container of Mopar Gear Oil
Friction Modifier when refilling.
FLUID DRAIN & REFILL
1) With lubricant of rear axle assembly at normal operating
temperature, raise and support vehicle so rear wheels are free to
rotate. Clean around axle housing cover. Loosen axle housing cover
bolts. Drain lubricant from axle housing. Remove bolts and axle
housing cover.
2) Position differential so hole in differential case faces
down. Wipe all accessible areas of axle housing. Ensure sealing
surfaces on axle housing and cover are clean. Apply a 1/4" thick bead
of silicone sealant on inside of bolt holes and along sealing surfaces
on axle housing cover.
3) Install axle housing cover, axle identification tag and
retaining bolts. Tighten bolts to 30 ft. lbs. (41 N.m). Remove oil
filler plug. Add a container of Mopar Gear Oil Friction Modifier. Fill
axle with gear lube. Install oil filler plug. Lower vehicle.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
DIFFERENTIAL NOISE
1) Ensure differential lubricant is at normal operating
temperature. Road test vehicle. Note if differential noise exists in
turns, but not during straight-ahead driving. Probable cause is
incorrect or insufficient rear axle lubricant or additive.
2) Drain and refill rear axle. See FLUID DRAIN & REFILL under
LUBRICATION. Road test vehicle and note if noise still exists, it may
be necessary to disassemble rear axle so differential can be repaired.
See RBI FULL-FLOATING AXLES article for removal of differential case.
TESTING
NOTE: Power-Lok differential can be tested without removing
differential carrier from axle housing. Either test can be
used to check drive axle.
TEST I
1) Place blocks under both front wheels. Ensure engine is off
and transmission is in Neutral. Release parking brake. Raise one rear
wheel until it is completely clear of the floor. Remove wheel. Install
Adapter (6790) to wheel studs, and tighten securely.
2) Using torque wrench on adapter, rotate axle, and record
torque required. Repeat procedure for remaining rear wheel position.
If rotational torque for either rear wheel is less than 30 ft. lbs.
(41 N.m) or greater than 200 ft. lbs. (271 N.m), Power-Lok unit must\
be replaced or repaired.

267 RBI ................................................ 7.0 (3.3)\
286 RBI
2WD ................................................... 6.8 (3.2)\
4WD .................................................. 10.1 (4.8)\
Ram Van/Wagon
248 RBI ................................................ 6.0 (2.8)\
(1) - Approximate drive axle capacity listed. Lubricant level should
be 1/2" below oil filler hole in axle housing cover.









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FLUID TYPE
Use SAE 80W-90 for 286 models, or 90W for all other models,
hypoid gear lubricant with MIL-L-2105-C and API GL-5 ratings. Models
with Trac-Lok require addition of 6 ozs. (.18 L) Mopar(R) friction
modifier (limited slip additive). Ram Pickups equipped with Power-Lok
require addition of 8 ozs. (.24 L) Mopar(R) friction modifier.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
NOTE: See appropriate table in TROUBLE SHOOTING article in GENERAL
INFORMATION.
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
REAR HUB, BEARINGS & AXLE SHAFT
Removal
Raise and support vehicle. Remove wheel. Remove bolts, axle
shaft and gasket. Remove nut lock from adjusting nut. See Fig. 1.
Remove adjusting nut and outer wheel bearing. Remove rear hub and
brake drum. Remove oil seal and inner wheel bearing (if necessary).
Installation
1) Pack wheel bearings with wheel bearing grease. Install
inner wheel bearing and oil seal in rear hub (if removed). Install
rear hub and brake drum. Install outer wheel bearing and adjusting
nut. Tighten adjusting nut to specification while rotating rear hub
and brake drum. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table.
2) Back off adjusting nut approximately 1/8 turn to obtain .
001-.010" (.03-.25 mm) wheel bearing end play. Tap key lock into
adjusting nut and keyway on axle housing.
3) To install remaining components, reverse removal
procedure. Use NEW gasket when installing axle shaft. Tighten bolts to
specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table.
DRIVE SHAFT
Removal
1) Raise and support vehicle. Ensure transmission and
transfer case selector levers are in Neutral. Remove wheel assembly.
Remove RWAL sensor, if equipped. Reference mark drive shaft to pinion
flange for reassembly.
2) On 2-piece drive shafts, scribe center carrier bearing-to-
frame bracket reference line for reassembly. On all drive shafts,
remove bolts and "U" joint straps at pinion flange. Remove center
carrier bearing bolts, if equipped. Remove spring clamps and brackets.
Remove drive shaft(s).
CAUTION: The "U" joint straps and bolts must be replaced. DO NOT

NOTE: Axle ratio can be identified by axle identification tag
attached to axle housing cover. See AXLE RATIO SPECIFICATIONS
table.
AXLE RATIO SPECIFICATIONS









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Application Ratio
8 1/4" Ring Gear ........................... 3.21:1, 3.55:1 & 3.90:1
9 1/4" Ring Gear ........................... 3.21:1, 3.55:1 & 3.92:1









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LUBRICATION
CAPACITY
DRIVE AXLE CAPACITY ( 1)








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Application Pts. (L)\
8 1/4" Ring Gears .................................... ( 2) 4.4 (2.1)
9 1/4" Ring Gear ..................................... ( 2) 4.9 (2.3)
( 1) - Approximate drive axle capacity listed. Lubricant level should
be within 1/2" below bottom of oil filler hole in axle housing
cover.
( 2) - Add 5 ounces of (148 ml) Trac-Loc additive.









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FLUID TYPE
Use SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear lubricant with MIL-L-2105-C and
API GL-5 ratings.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
NOTE: See appropriate table in TROUBLE SHOOTING article in GENERAL
INFORMATION.
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
AXLE SHAFT & BEARING
CAUTION: When servicing differential, DO NOT rotate one axle shaft
unless both axles are installed into differential. Rotation
of one axle shaft without other in place may result in
misalignment of side gears in differential. This would
require difficult realignment of side gears before axle
shafts can be installed.
Removal
1) Raise and support vehicle. Remove wheel and brake drum.
Clean area around axle housing cover. Loosen axle housing cover bolts.
Drain lubricant from axle housing. Remove bolts and axle housing
cover. Rotate differential carrier for access to lock bolt. See Fig. 1
.
2) Remove lock bolt and pinion shaft from differential
carrier. See Fig. 1. Push axle shaft inward, toward center of vehicle.
Remove clip from groove in end of axle shaft. Remove axle shaft from

LUBRICATION
CAPACITY
DRIVE AXLE CAPACITY ( 1)








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Application ( 2) Pts. (L)
Dakota .................................................... 4.7(2.2)\
Ram Pickup
248 RBI ................................................ 6.3 (3.0)\
267 RBI .................................................. 7 (3.3)\
286 RBI
2WD ................................................... 6.8 (3.2)\
4WD .................................................. 10.1 (4.8)\
Ram Van/Wagon ............................................ 6.3 (3.0)\
( 1) - Approximate drive axle capacity listed. Lubricant level should
be within 1/2" below bottom of oil filler hole in axle housing
cover.
( 2) - Add container of Mopar Gear Oil Friction Modifier when
refilling.









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FLUID TYPE
Use SAE 80W-90 or SAE 90W hypoid gear lubricant with MIL-L-
2105-C and API GL-5 ratings. Also add a container of Mopar Gear Oil
Friction Modifier when refilling.
FLUID DRAIN & REFILL
1) With lubricant of rear axle assembly at operating
temperature, raise and support vehicle so rear wheels are free to
rotate. Clean around axle housing cover. Loosen axle housing cover
bolts. Drain lubricant from axle housing. Remove bolts and axle
housing cover.
2) Position differential so hole in differential case is
facing downward. Wipe out all accessible areas of axle housing. Ensure
sealing surfaces on axle housing and cover are clean. Apply a 1/4"
thick bead of silicone sealant on inside of bolt holes and along
sealing surfaces on axle housing cover.
3) Install axle housing cover, axle identification tag and
retaining bolts. Tighten bolts to 30-35 ft. lbs. (41-47 N.m). Remove
oil filler plug. Add a container of Mopar Gear Oil Friction Modifier.
Fill axle with gear lube. Install oil filler plug. Lower vehicle.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
DIFFERENTIAL NOISE
1) Ensure differential lubricant is at normal operating
temperature. Road test vehicle. Note if differential noise exists in
turns, but not during straight-ahead driving. Probable cause is
incorrect or insufficient rear axle lubricant or additive.
2) Drain and refill rear axle. See FLUID DRAIN & REFILL under
LUBRICATION. Road test vehicle making 10-12 slow figure-8 turns and
note if noise still exists. It may be necessary to disassemble rear
axle so differential can be repaired. See RBI FULL FLOATING AXLES
article for removal of differential case.