Is your 2016 Dodge Durango left front transaxle dust cover torn or leaking? Don’t worry, you can save time and money by making the changes yourself. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of replacing the left front transaxle guard on your 2016 Dodge Durango.
First, let’s understand what a transaxle is and why it’s important. The transaxle is a major component of the drivetrain of a front-wheel drive vehicle. It combines the functions of the transmission, axle and differential into one integrated component. It is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels and allowing the wheels to move at different speeds when cornering. The transaxle boot is a protective cover that prevents dirt and contaminants from entering the transaxle joint, ensuring smooth operation and preventing premature wear.
Now, let’s begin the process of replacing the 2016 Dodge Durango left front transaxle dust boot.
1. Gather necessary tools and supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. You will need a set of wrenches, a torque wrench, a flat-blade screwdriver, a pair of pliers, a hammer, a new transaxle guard kit, and a jack and jack stands to lift the vehicle.
2. Lift the vehicle
Start by raising the front of the vehicle using a jack and supporting it with jack stands for safety. Once the vehicle is safely raised, remove the left front wheel to gain access to the transaxle assembly.
3. Remove the transaxle nut
Use a wrench to carefully remove the transaxle nut from the axle. You may need to use a torque wrench to loosen the nuts, since nuts are typically tightened to a specific torque specification.
4. Separate ball joint
Next, you need to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle. This can usually be done using a ball joint splitter tool. Once the ball joint is separated, you can carefully remove the axle from the transaxle assembly.
5. Remove the old transaxle guard
With the half shafts removed, you can now remove the old transaxle boot from the transaxle header. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to gently pry the old boot away from the connector, being careful not to damage the connector itself.
6. Clean and inspect transaxle connector
After removing the old dust boot, take the time to thoroughly clean and inspect the transaxle connector. Make sure there is no dirt or debris, and check for any signs of damage or wear. If the joint shows signs of excessive wear or damage, it may also need to be replaced.
7. Install new transaxle boot
Now, it’s time to install the new transaxle guard. Most transaxle guard kits come with detailed instructions on how to properly install the guard and secure it in place. Use a pair of pliers to secure the guide clip, ensuring a tight and secure fit around the transaxle connector.
8. Reassemble the transaxle assembly
With the new boot in place, carefully reassemble the transaxle assembly in the reverse order of removal. Reinstall the axle shafts, torque the transaxle nuts to the specified torque, and reinstall the ball joint to the steering knuckle.
9. Reinstall the wheels
After reassembling the transaxle assembly, reinstall the left front wheel and lower the vehicle to the ground.
10. Test drive and inspection
Before considering the job complete, test drive the vehicle to make sure everything is working properly. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations, which may indicate a problem with the transaxle assembly.
By following the steps below, you can successfully replace the left front transaxle boot on your 2016 Dodge Durango. Remember, always refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications, or if you’re not comfortable performing this task yourself. It’s best to seek professional help.
Post time: Feb-06-2024