2016 RAM 1500 Front CV Axle Shaft

[CO-Ram]

Hey all,

Got up this morning and decided to check out the undercarriage on my 2016 RAM 1500 (5.7L, no air ride). I noticed that the passenger side CV axle is pulling away from the intermediate shaft, and I can see some wear/stripping on the shaft ends.

Looks like I'll need to replace both the intermediate shaft and the CV axle on that side. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has recommendations on quality brands for these parts that won’t break the bank. I’ve seen a full set going for around $2,200—which is way out of my budget.

Has anyone replaced theirs and been happy with a specific brand? I’m looking for something reliable, but not top-dollar.

Appreciate any advice!

Thanks,
Tim

 

[jws123]

Has anyone ever replaced the cv axle? are you orig owner? Its possible the clip rotted away or someone never put it back to begin with. I can see ont he shaft its self it still has a ridge for the clip not sure why wou would need to replace the shaft its self I would try a new clip frist and inspect the cv axle.

Amazon.com: HQPARRTS Front Axle Carrier Snap Ring C-Clip Compatible with 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 (Replace #68146592AA) : Automotive

Buy HQPARRTS Front Axle Carrier Snap Ring C-Clip Compatible with 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 (Replace #68146592AA): Clips - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

 

[CO-Ram]

Hi Jws123,

Yes, I’m the original owner—Purchased it new off the lot in 2016. I've never had any work done on the front CV axles.

I’ll go ahead and order the clips and let you know how it turns out. The CV axle appears to be in good condition—no leaking, and the splines don’t seem stripped—so if the clips fix it, that would save me a ton of $$. The OD just turned 61k miles so not a lot of mile on it. Really appreciate the help! And will let you know the outcome.

Thanks again,
Tim

 

[Burla]

Hey all,

Got up this morning and decided to check out the undercarriage on my 2016 RAM 1500 (5.7L, no air ride). I noticed that the passenger side CV axle is pulling away from the intermediate shaft, and I can see some wear/stripping on the shaft ends.

Looks like I'll need to replace both the intermediate shaft and the CV axle on that side. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has recommendations on quality brands for these parts that won’t break the bank. I’ve seen a full set going for around $2,200—which is way out of my budget.

Has anyone replaced theirs and been happy with a specific brand? I’m looking for something reliable, but not top-dollar.

Appreciate any advice!

Thanks,
Tim

That is a very cheap part, you can probably get les shuab well under a g for everything plus labor. Just search Amazon, the part by nature isn't very stout, I'm not sure one will matter much over another, it is almost a maintenance item.

 

[CO-Ram]

Dumb question for the day (because there’s always at least one, right?) — once I get the new clips from Amazon, how exactly do I install them onto the shaft? Is it a C-clip that snaps into a groove, or do I just tap it on with a socket and mallet?


Trying not to butcher anything this time


Also, just to be safe (and because I like to be prepared if it all goes to ****), I ordered the following backup parts:

• 2X Cardone New CV Drive Axles for 2012–2020 1500, 2019–2020 1500 Classic
  Part #: 66-3740HD | AAZ-663740HD
• Dorman Axle Shaft for 2012–2020 1500, 2019–2021 1500 Classic
  Part #: 630-446 | RNB-630-446

Anything eles I should get just incase?
Quick update from this morning — I got a better look at the passenger-side CV axle, and it appears the retaining clip is no longer in place. I've also attached a short video to show the amount of play I’m seeing on that side.

Do you think a new retaining clip will be enough to resolve this issue, or will I likely need to replace the CV axle and clip together?

Appreciate the insight.

Also just wanted to mention — the truck drives perfectly fine with no shaking or unusual vibrations. The only reason I noticed the issue was because I was doing my yearly undercarriage cleaning and power washing. That’s when I saw the CV axle wasn’t fully seated and started investigating further.

2016 RAM 1500 Larmie 5.7 Hemi Passanger Side CV Axel Play

Best,
Tim

 

[mdc1990zr1]

Dumb question for the day (because there’s always at least one, right?) — once I get the new clips from Amazon, how exactly do I install them onto the shaft? Is it a C-clip that snaps into a groove, or do I just tap it on with a socket and mallet?


Trying not to butcher anything this time


Also, just to be safe (and because I like to be prepared if it all goes to ****), I ordered the following backup parts:

• 2X Cardone New CV Drive Axles for 2012–2020 1500, 2019–2020 1500 Classic
  Part #: 66-3740HD | AAZ-663740HD
• Dorman Axle Shaft for 2012–2020 1500, 2019–2021 1500 Classic
  Part #: 630-446 | RNB-630-446

Anything eles I should get just incase?
Quick update from this morning — I got a better look at the passenger-side CV axle, and it appears the retaining clip is no longer in place. I've also attached a short video to show the amount of play I’m seeing on that side.

Do you think a new retaining clip will be enough to resolve this issue, or will I likely need to replace the CV axle and clip together?

Appreciate the insight.

Also just wanted to mention — the truck drives perfectly fine with no shaking or unusual vibrations. The only reason I noticed the issue was because I was doing my yearly undercarriage cleaning and power washing. That’s when I saw the CV axle wasn’t fully seated and started investigating further.

2016 RAM 1500 Larmie 5.7 Hemi Passanger Side CV Axel Play

Best,
Tim

Whatever fix you choose, I would pack it with some kind of grease or anti-seize, especially around that clip and at the end to prevent as much moisture from getting in as you can

 

[CO-Ram]

I was try to get input on if it looks like the CV Axel is bad with the video I posted. I don’t know anything about CV Axels or how to tell if they are bad or not. Should that CV Axel have that much play in it? Or is the play because of the missing rusted out c clip on the intermediate shaft show in the photo.

 

[Stein1973]

Hey all,

Got up this morning and decided to check out the undercarriage on my 2016 RAM 1500 (5.7L, no air ride). I noticed that the passenger side CV axle is pulling away from the intermediate shaft, and I can see some wear/stripping on the shaft ends.

Looks like I'll need to replace both the intermediate shaft and the CV axle on that side. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has recommendations on quality brands for these parts that won’t break the bank. I’ve seen a full set going for around $2,200—which is way out of my budget.

Has anyone replaced theirs and been happy with a specific brand? I’m looking for something reliable, but not top-dollar.

Appreciate any advice!

Thanks,
Tim

I've had to replace mine twice because of the rubber boot was lose and slinging grease everywhere on the wheel side. 2010 Ram 1500.

 

[Arthur hei]

I just did this to my 16 eco.
There is a great kit for the inner shafts on Amazon
You tube has videos
You will also need clips as the ones with the kit would not work for me.
The front dif does not need to be taken out only the right end comes off.

 

[CO-Ram]

Yeah, I’ve been watching a ton of the videos on the passenger side — some of them are pretty funny, but all really detailed and helpful. I went ahead and ordered everything you mentioned, plus some new shafts just in case. (Better to have it an return it if not needed)

I’m hoping it’s just the clips and not something worse, especially since the boots still look perfect — no rips or tears at all. But I figured I’d grab everything I might need to just do the whole thing right, if it comes down to it.


I guess I’ll know more once I pull the CV axle and can check if the splines are shot or not. Felt bad for some of the guys in those videos dealing with seized shafts — what a total PITA.

Did you just need to replace the clips or the clips plus the CV Axel?


Here’s the part I ordered for reference:
HQPARRTS Carrier Bearing – Amazon


Thanks again for all the info!

 

[Dodge 1500 4X4]

Watching that video, the stub shaft has had a problem W the spline wearing out causing all of that play in the CV shaft ( or axle shaft) so the stub shaft Assy has to be removed from the differential housing, I've rebuild a couple of the units from these guys that sell a rebuild kit, if nothing else watch there video.

Rick Roods Transmission, the powertrain specialist in the Maritimes

Every job is done right, We are not afraid to spend extra time if we screw up, we fix our mistakes, take the time on a job to make it right by the customer, We take great pride in the quality of our work. We do this through patience in training our employees, using updated equipment and...

rickroodstransmission.com

 

[Arthur hei]

I replaced both shafts and both cv shafts. The spline was worn wobbly bad on the right and stuck on the left. I used the inner clip from the left one over on the new short inner shaft.
Also take a look at your front driveshaft U joint.
I had a new one installed by a driveshaft builder. It even now has a grease fitting.

 

[CO-Ram]

What Brand Of CV Axels would you all recommend? I got Cardon HD but wanted to see what brand you all have had good luck with. Truck is leveled @ 2.4 "

 

[Norseman]

Hey all,

Got up this morning and decided to check out the undercarriage on my 2016 RAM 1500 (5.7L, no air ride). I noticed that the passenger side CV axle is pulling away from the intermediate shaft, and I can see some wear/stripping on the shaft ends.

Looks like I'll need to replace both the intermediate shaft and the CV axle on that side. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has recommendations on quality brands for these parts that won’t break the bank. I’ve seen a full set going for around $2,200—which is way out of my budget.

Has anyone replaced theirs and been happy with a specific brand? I’m looking for something reliable, but not top-dollar.

Appreciate any advice!

Thanks,
Tim

I replaced mine due to excessive wear on my 2020 Bighorn, 72k miles. I took a chance and bought my parts from Amazon for about $140. The kit included the right cv axle, and a complete kit to replace both intermediate shafts with seals and bearings. So far so good, I've put about 5k miles on it with no issues.

 

[Arthur hei]

Sadly almost every thing is made off shore and by only a couple of manufacturers and branded for who ever

 

[CO-Ram]

Hey everyone,


I just wanted to say thank you all for your input on this dilemma. I’m pretty mechanically inclined, but tackling something I’ve never done before—like CV axles—definitely makes me a bit nervous. So yeah, I ask a lot of questions (some good, some... not so good ), but I really appreciate all the advice you’ve shared.

I’m pulling the truck into the garage today and getting started. Gonna take my time and go step by step.

Since the truck will be lifted and on jackstands anyway, I figured it’s a good time to tackle a few other things. Here’s my current parts list:

• Mevotech TTX Ball Joints
  For 2011–2018 1500, 2019–2024 1500 CLASSIC, 2009–2010 RAM 1500
  TXMS25545 – Summit Racing
• SuspensionMAXX Sway Bar End Links
  For 2011–2018 1500, 2006–2010 RAM 1500
  SMX-1300L – Summit Racing
• Cardone New CV Drive Axles
  For 2012–2020 1500, 2019–2020 1500 CLASSIC
  66-3740HD – Summit Racing
• Front Axle Carrier Snap Ring C-Clip
  Compatible with 2012–2017 Dodge Ram 1500
  Amazon Link
• Front Differential Axle Intermediate Shaft Kit
  Replacement for 2012–2021 Dodge Ram 1500
  Amazon Link

Thanks again for the guidance—let me know if you see anything missing lol.

Best,
Tim

 

[CO-Ram]

Job Complete – Front End Overhaul Recap
After roughly 8 hours total, the job is finally done! All new parts have been installed, and the truck’s front end is feeling solid again. Big shoutout to DILLIGAF for recommending the SuspensionMAXX Sway Bar End Links – super helpful and a great upgrade.
️ The Job:
Honestly, not too bad. I had the time and wasn’t in a rush – helps having three other vehicles in rotation. It goes in for an alignment this week (just to be safe), and I’m also getting a set of Fuel Slayer 20x9 +1 offset wheels installed later this week.
________________________________________
Things I’d Do Differently Next Time:
• Wait until ALL parts arrive before starting. The waiting game sucked.
• Press the bearings on the intermediate shaft before even starting the teardown. Spent over 2 hours just finding a shop willing to do it ($25 well spent).
• Print out torque specs and keep them nearby for easy reference.
• Have the right tools on hand. Tools I had to hunt for:
o Torque wrench rated to 185 ft-lbs
o Snap ring pliers
o Pry bar set
o 35mm 12-point socket
________________________________________
Parts I Wish I Had Done (Next Round ):
• TTX Wheel Bearing & Hub Assembly – TXF25309
• TTX Control Arm + Ball Joint (Left) – CTXMS25149
• TTX Control Arm + Ball Joint (Right) – CTXMS25150
________________________________________
Final Thoughts:
• PITA? Yeah, at times.
• Difficult? Not really.
• Time-Consuming? Absolutely, especially first time around.
Most of the frustration came from not having the right tools ready and not having some tasks (like bearing pressing) knocked out ahead of time.

 

[Arthur hei]

Good to hear!!

 

[Jeepwalker]

Glad you got it fixed. I would have tried the clip first. Keep your OEM axles in case the aftermarket ones don't last that long.

How did your tk's ball joints feel? I probably would only swap the OEM ones if they felt loose or worn. They 'should' last quite a long time. But of course that varies. Does your truck have a "Level kit" installed?

My tk's got 178k and the front end still feels tight. Granted it's all road miles.

 

[CO-Ram]

I guess the way I was looking at it was — I didn’t really want to do the work, but I also didn’t want to pay someone else to do it. And I definitely didn’t want anything falling apart on the trails in Ouray. So if I was going to tackle it, I figured I’d take care of as much as possible while it was already out of commission.


The lower ball joints had a bit of wiggle — not terrible — probably could’ve gone another 20k miles (just a guess), but figured I might as well replace them now.


As for the passenger side shaft, it was pretty hammered. I don’t think just putting a new clip in would’ve held for long. The splines on both the shaft and CV axle were noticeably worn.


I did hang on to the driver’s side CV axle — it was still in good condition, so I kept it as a backup.


For reference, I’m running a leveling kit: 6112s set at 2.4" up front, with Icon 1.5” lift rear springs and 5160s in the rear.