Dodge Dakota Front Axle Noise

Lets have a look and see why the heck the front CV axle is falling out of this 2000 Dodge Dakota when the customer supposedly just paid $700 to have it fixed! Ends up it is an easy fix !
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Due to factors beyond the control of South Main Auto Repair, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. South Main Auto Repair assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. South Main Auto Repair recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of South Main Auto Repair, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not South Main Auto Repair.

[@tomoakhill8825]

I LOVE it!! At 6:42 someone says "DaDa?", and his entire tone of voice changes. Eric is such a "father", that is his _real_ job. He just fixes cars as a sideline.

[@quantumleap359]

Honest and competent. Eric, you set a great standard for all automotive technicians. Great job.

[@daleburrell6273]

...he'd make Gus Wison proud-!!

[@mailman7478]

That other shop sure gave him the shaft.

[@SouthMainAuto]

+mailman7478 Literally!

[@ROACHRAGE2]

Ha ha! Thanks for that!

[@johnathandoerty1021]

@Milhaus : Unspoken "Rules" of the Road --- LMAO!!! 😆

[@codo7]

They gave him the wrong shaft.

[@robertgary3561]

They got the gold mine; customer got the shaft.

[@testosteroneinc.3800]

Anyone else on a SMA video binge?

[@cesarsaldivar8138]

I can't stop watching!

[@erict4883]

His videos rock!!! He makes it fun to watch also.

[@paulkirkland1535]

Garrett Martin; me too, can't get enough, just makes​ my day.

[@jazbuh1794]

Appears that I have just started one.

[@TURBOSHANE101]

I've been a SMA marathon as of late.

[@gingerd2098]

So this is what a good mechanic looks like. I haven't seen one in over a decade!

[@FloridaBoilermaker]

Good mechanic but did some extra work that didn't need to just to take the shaft out. The nut in the hub and the bolts on the inside is all that needed to be removed for the shaft to drop.

[@webefree]

@@FloridaBoilermaker I wit you!

[@rtundlt1]

I really like that I can watch your videos and learn new things. What I like most is that I can watch your videos in front of, and show my grandsons because you don't have to use gutter and foul language. It is refreshing in this day and time. If I lived within 50 miles of you, you would be my permanent repair facility. You seem to be honest with your customers and know what you are doing.

[@erikjohnson2889]

That little sweet voice saying "lunch is ready" nearly brought me to tears. I'm a mushy dude. But she's such a sweetheart!!

[@OOZ662]

Cutest lunch alarm

[@ronaldanderson9263]

Eric, y'all should be on TV. Wait, TV doesn't have TV like this. That's why everyone says it sucks. Thanks for letting us all watch. Any fantasies I may have had about going into auto repair are gone! - I'll just watch you.

[@ChuckMalefyt]

I enjoyed watching this video Eric. Not only are you a great mechanic but you are excellent in front of a camera. Well done!

[@SouthMainAuto]

Thanks Chuck

[@TheGreatdane56]

he looks a lot and talks a lot ' RED Green" lol

[@-MrRichBiker1967]

Chuck Malefyt very well said,my man. could watch him all day. along with Eric the car guy and good ol' Scotty killer himself!!!

[@fatboydan02]

Da Grinch...You NAILED IT. I stumbled across South Main Auto looking for a fix to a problem I was having with my 96 Chevy S10 ZR2...been watching ever since....I even subscribed.

[@waynemazzola9443]

@@TheGreatdane56 Steve smith would be proud of Eric, Remember if the women don't find you handsome they should at least find you handy!!!!!

[@AdrianKingsleyHughes]

Since starting to watch Eric-O I've learned to love the air hammer ... and dramatically increased my brake parts cleaner bill!

[@djtechinics97dj37]

fyi amazon sells break cleaner in bulk. lol

[@pospc2]

I buy brake clean at my local rual king for $25 a case of 12. I am going to start using my air hammer a lot more however.

[@paisleyprince5280]

Buy a good air hammer and get name brand bits with lifetime warranties, you're gonna break them all eventually.

[@harryl7946]

I use BK cleaner on everything now! 🤣🥰

[@garychandler4296]

Whatever happened to gasoline? 😅

[@kensherwood4866]

I'm no mechanic but technically aware and love to watch your clear explanation of the issues and how you resolve them. Like too that you show your fallibility, when things don't go to plan, reassuring to know that I'm not alone in making mistakes. Keep posting.

[@Raylude5]

I was getting frightened with the dramatic music...until the door dinger went off. lol Nice timing...blasted door chime. Keep up the good work

[@Ibjahmin]

Awesome and honest workmanship. I try and do my own repairs. Trustworthy technicians such as yourself are few and far between. 💯👍

[@raycontreras9442]

I really want to thank you... Before your vids I was a very impatient diyer always cursing and being pissed off lol, but seeing how humble you are and passionate about your job, I now just do work calmly and appreciative. Also I'm planning on going back to Auto tech school after finding a new love for this stuff.. 👍

[@gzhang207]

I hope NAPA has watched enough of your videos and become a sponsor by now. It is often easier to fix a problem than to completely understand the cause. Great work.

[@toyotatech2jz814]

This is what gives us a bad name. Places always looking to Rip the next guy off. You can tell nothing was really even worked on or the bolts wouldn't have been difficult to get off at all. Great work as always Eric.

[@bairfamilyfarm1336]

7:59 in. That tells you right there the other shop didn't do it properly. I gotta go to work, I'll finish the video when I get home. Thanks for all the helpful tips and tricks Mr O! You as may as well own an E-learning channel, I start my first job as a mechanic on Monday.

[@erichuggins4078]

This video solved a perennial problem with my drivers side CV axle that would never latch onto the stub axle properly. The visual comparison between the two models identified the source of the problems - and allowed me to return the incorrect model for the correct one. Wallah! The new CV Axle locks on properly now. Awesome video that is as helpful as ever. Thanks so much.

[@lawrencepevitts2434]

It can't be lunch time, the siren didn't sound. Love your videos. I think it's great that you take the time to make these videos. I know it must take a lot of time to video & edit them. Very educational.

[@waynehutchinson1423]

Hi, l learned from 3 observations 1)Glad to see i am not the only one trying to fit a trouble light to stay in position..lol 2) l haven't seen a hitch hiker since the 1970's,when l used to do it...lol 3) please wear something from the brake dust...you are the most honest ,common sense, informative mechanic around..take care ,we love your vids.

[@vonhausser]

I'm a retired tank mechanic I poped off the top ball joint instead of taking the brakes apart I needed new ball joints anyways on my 04 Dakota, I made sure I got the right cv joint after watching your video thanks

[@TheZXKUQYB]

Eric O has a very Red Green feel to his videos. Got to love it.

[@wysetech2000]

In my opinion you took the time to figure out why the previous repair failed and performed the repair properly at minimum expense to the customer. Also, I was so very proud of you when you used liberal amounts of brake cleaner. {:-)

[@avisitorhere]

Great lesson in matching your ordered parts to the parts you're replacing. Also enjoyed that you dove into the source of the problem, which most channels don't bother with.

[@nicknicu1787]

Another good and honest quality repair performed by the Doctor! Let's not hide behind words,the other guy just ripped your customer off! He knew he's far from home so he took advantage. It was a " BOOM BAMM THANK YOU M'AM " type of deal!

[@thomasstreetman8066]

Aw man, aw man! Once the brake cleaner shows up, the party has officially started!! Wow. There's nothing quite like paying $700 to someone to not repair something properly. Doing honest and quality service and repair is almost like a ministry. Keep up the good work Eric. You will be blessed.

[@limasmith5387]

Thomas I agree, the work Eric does is a ministry, I reference Colossians 3:17 " And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." May we reflect the quality of work that Jesus did as a Carpenter. We are blessed. Thank you Eric for your expertise.

[@John-rz6sp]

That's why If the original problem with the axle is just a ripped boot I prefer to just put a correct new boot on it and fill it with new grease rather than deal with an aftermarket axle shaft. I put a reman axle shaft on my 1990 Caravan and ended up with steering that shook terribly between 45 - 55 MPH then smoothed out. Took me a long time ( 2-3 years) to find out what was wrong. It wasn't until the boot ripped and I put another axle in it that I had the problem get fixed. I guess the axle shaft was not properly balanced. I no longer have the problem. New replacement axle was free (Lifetime Warranty on it). Really like the videos you put out and the great work you do. Wish you were closer so I could come to you when I need something fixed. I have no trust in the shops I've been to in my area so I have to try and do what I need done myself. I'm getting too old to do a lot of it now.

[@JOHNSUE28]

42 years Repairing Vehicles. I still learn from SMA. I recommend SMA to all my Rookie techs. Hope they listen and see Eric put into action what I preach every day in the dealership I work at. Thank you, Eric. And your lovely Family.

[@williamdaniel6802]

He must of had the work done at a dealership. Due to the price and quality of workmanship. Eric, great job finding the real problem and how easy the real fix was..

[@majorpayne5289]

👍23+ yrs industrial refrigeration guy here & I've used Aero-Kroil since I was wet behind the ears. Expensive & none better but ya can't forget to add the cost to your misc charges to customer.

[@mailpup]

I'm just a DIY mechanic but I had a similar experience with an old Honda Prelude once. I replaced a CV axle on my sister's car with a reman axle. The inner joint's retaining ring groove was in the wrong position similar to the what was in the video. The auto parts store called the rebuilder who seemed sure that it was the correct part. I knew the history of my sister's car and the transaxle and axle shaft were factory originals at the time. The parts store ended up getting the correct part from another source. I always paid extra attention to this since then.

[@charlesmiller5078]

Quality work as usual..............Doggy engine. I remember when I was 19 or so, I drove a 1970 Nova super sport. There was a Old Gulf gas station kinda across from where or shop was located at in Tampa. I walked over and asked this older man if he did Lube and oil changes, and if I could just leave it when I came to work and pick it up when I got back in the evening when we got back to the shop, Sure so next morning I left the car. I walked over to pickup my car, and watched as he was finishing up the lube job. Not only did he lube all the grease fitting, but lubed, Hood Hinges,Trunk Hinges, all the doors, Brake and clutch hinges, and to top it off he also graphic sprayed the locks, I was floored.I asked if he always went this far, He said if the customer pays for a lube job, that means a lube job, anything else and your being ripped off.....Total cost for oil change and Lube job.....2.50. Now when I service my truck and or cars I always do the same. Wonder where Mechanic shops fall on the BBB list of complaints, probably right behind roofers. How does any other shops stay in business around there, with SMA in the hood.

[@raybrensike42]

When I get a chassis lube, they don't even do the U-joints.

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

Where in Tampa was Gulf Station? I lived in Tampa for about 47 years. 1969 to 2016. Rhs grad.

[@Cheepchipsable]

Many vehicles don't have grease nipples any more, and are either sealed or made out of materials that don't need lubrication, or the manufacturing tolerances are higher, or hinges are just redesigned.

[@simonelsey]

@Matthew Gerhardt my mechanic in UK , I take my car tell him it needs service or may need brakes , he checks it all and than tells me the cost of repairs and mot test yeArly road test gov.., he's not the cheapest around but he's the most trustworthy and he knows he's stuff.

[@ralfie8801]

Ray Brensike It's not like you're getting ripped off, most OE u joints don't have zerks any more, you can't grease them unless you poke holes in the rubber cap seals with one of those greasing needles, I prefer not to do that and just let them ride. Once they go out, you replace them with some that can be greased. On the positive side, those u joints that can't be greased often times outlast the vehicle they came in. I've got a 1/2 ton GM pickup with a bit over 500K on the clock and it still has the original u joints without grease zerks in it. My Duramax went a tad under 300K before it needed rear u joints.

[@timmykelly4508]

I just started watching your videos about a month ago and this is my second favorite video you made. Honest Man Eric O. My favorite video is fixing up Vinny's scooter as a vet that one touch me. Also seen the one where you got emotional over your brother in-law (I got emotional with you Mr O). I am a Submarine Vet off the good ol USS FLORIDA (SSBN728B). before she got converted over to SSGN728.

[@DonBMW]

You’re a master of your craft sir. You remind me of my former mechanic who retired years ago after 35 years . He was honest, charged a reasonable prices and did quality work. Later his son took over, but the shop was just not the same. The shop closed 6 months later. Keep up the great work. You will never have shortage of work.

[@fmh357]

Funny thing, I was looking for a video for a noisy diff since I can hear a noise when driving but decided to watch your video just because. Replacing the shocks I noticed the inner CV joint housing on drivers side can be rocked back and forth meaning a bad fit and/or worn out parts. So this how to is exactly what I'll be doing next. Thanks for the warning about the snap ring issue.

[@vincentneri708]

Great Work Eric! I know people that would pay the $700 no question's asked. It is unfortunately how things are.

[@otiscox8821]

I went through this same situation with repair shops. I didn't have time then to make repairs myself. I am now having to repair the repair of the repair ....I will not turn your stomach with what they did the first time. I will be replacing my CV axles myself, and lower control arms, shocks, diff. axle seals, and gear lube change. This video is a great help as I now know what to expect, and how to avoid getting the wrong parts. Thanks!

[@christopherbarone3602]

had a similar problem with an 09 Honda accord LF axle seal leak new seal was to small and all the part stores insisted the part was right one you shouldn't be able to pull the seal out with your fingers after installing it got the right seal finally matched up to old seal I forgot to pay attention to the correct part number great video good info

[@Fuddpucker2009]

What a way to start the day, great video, a cup of coffee in one hand and a can of brake clean in the other. Life is good.. Thanks Eric !!!

[@davidcisneros1429]

Hey Brother, you are the best DIY/mechanic Channel I have come across in regards to my Durango. Thanks for taking the extra time and effort to bring us information that saves guys like me time and money. Again, Thanks!

[@denniswilkinson1118]

Great video Eric, glad to see those safety glasses in use. That's some beautiful country there.

[@paulcochran1721]

Well, second time watching.... First time was just for the heck of it, now , eight years later, I got a noise on my Durango. Sounds like the issue, so now I know what to look for. Thanks again.

[@normansmith7806]

Wow $ 700. for a axle job. Great video u got rust, brake cleaner and a air hammer the perfect you tube video :) I have used my 1/2 Nano on a couple front end jobs really like it. Good one Eric O !

[@tomclark3592]

I am spending money on tools that I never owned and I can't wait to get home from work to watch his awesome videos.

[@Aaron22000]

Avoca, NY. Nice area, I use to live in Coudersport, PA. Not to far from there. Nice job on your videos.

[@geraldhall2740]

Thanks Eric for the excellent video! I have the same truck, an '01 built on 9/9/00, equipped with the earlier 'shallow' snap ring groove axles. After looking over the MOPAR parts book the two parts that you pointed out (intermediate axle shaft, axle half shaft) are the three parts that were changed beginning with 9/12/00 production. The half shafts are identical for either side and the intermediate shafts are specific for each side on either early or later production. I wish I'd have payed a little closer attention when I watched this the first time but I wasn't dealing with a bad differential at that point, just familiarizing myself with general teardown. Finding the production date was a lot more difficult than I ever imagined it would be, but eventually I got it nailed down with the help of a salvage yard I contacted for parts. Anyway, your videos have been a incredible help so keep up the great work!

[@oliveirainvestments2884]

Great video... Great mechanic and great service... Difficult to find good professionals out there such like you... Brilliant

[@jimerickson542]

You could also pop the upper ball joint out, tie rod and pull it from the other side. Give you just enough room. Just in case anyone is fighting with the hub assy. Thanks for the video!

[@mph5896]

I did that job a few months back, I d/c'ed the top ball joint and tie rod end to get the axle out. Never knew removing the bearing would give it enough room to get the axle out

[@Radienleo]

I am not sure if you presented this video to this customer but he could need/use it to get a refund from the other mechanic shop. You mentioned you would let us know it they did other work or just that over priced replacement for 700 bucks. Keep us posted! I mentioned 2 months ago i had a stuck spark plug and all 6 came out successfully after soaking over two weeks. One plug 3 quarter turns one way and 1 turn back each day, came out. 2007 Toyota 4runner. I also broke my strut on my pos 2007 30'000 mile Chevrolet Cobalt, but thanks to your video i purchased a replacement MONROE strut from Advanced Auto (they had in stock) for both rears and i have done the repair myself. First time removing (100% safely) two tires and two struts. Thanks for the uploads!~

[@boomertsm]

I’m not a mechanic and only do minor fixes to my vehicle, i.e., engine/cabin air filters, fuse replacements, wipers, etc., but you really are impressive in your ability, both to figure out what is wrong but to properly execute the correct repair and thoroughly explain your process. Having an honest, knowledgeable mechanic like you working on my vehicles would be a blessing. Terrific vid. Thanks.

[@tanglerd]

I have done all my repair work in Southern California...... Amazing the rust and crap you have to put up with. I enjoy watching your videos. Thanks.

[@kurtlindstrom4218]

I came to this video looking for some clue as to all that is involved in replacing a "ball and joint" rod that I know when I see it. I couldnt help but watch the whole video just because!! I am not a mechanic but I do enjoy being frustrated, spending way more than is necessary, and figuring things out :) I need a lift as well as an air hammer/gun/whatever such a tool is called!!

[@jackwood8307]

As if working on these wasn’t hard enough the rust you guys deal with up there is horrendous! Great video!

[@TheJuanSolid]

This literally comes down to someone not comparing the old part with the new. The sad part is a auto repair shop did that. Yet another reason to be your own mechanic if you can't find one you can trust.

[@clarencek3658]

Man I wish you lived closer to NYC.. You seem like a very trustworthy mechanic that won't rip people off and knowledgable.. I may just have to make a trip up there to give you business

[@SouthMainAuto]

Don't go there! I live upstate :)

[@jamoliverj]

Love the test drives in your videos. You live in a beautiful part of the world. Seems like a nice town to live and work in. Thanks for another great video.

[@Hawk1966]

I was raised in CT, my family loved camping we spent a fair amount of time in that neck of the woods. Later I was an Exploring Advisor at at least once, sometimes twice we took our scouts caving up thereabouts. Absolutely beautiful neck of the woods. Fall is glorious with the leaves changing. Miss it a great deal.

[@CHIBA280CRV]

Another fine video , and a customer that got taken for a ride ! You should have left him keep the old axle and returned it to the shop...that would have been another video lol..keep the videos coming , I watch them all...thanks Eric.

[@davidrobins4025]

Your description of the problem and solution to the mess that was brought in was helpful to hear. Thanks.

[@mmichaeldonavon]

Eric. Really enjoyed your video- as usual. Great find on the location of that snap ring - that's t/shooting with your eyes, "fer shure." :) I keep learning from you. At 79 I don't know how many good brain cells I have left! har, har. Thanks.

[@keithkennedy4859]

$700 ..what a scam..... ive had a few dakotas over the years and agree 3.9 has no power but they are reliable in my experience. another good video..keep it up

[@johngalv9288]

Eric, Honesty is not easy to find anymore! I wish we had mechanics like you in my area.

[@kthwkr]

I was hitchiking to the Twin Kiss and you passed me by. And I was gonna buy.

[@ronaldpalmer5332]

Brother that was one of the best,most thorough how to videos I've ever seen

[@Fedwrench]

Your videos always make me appreciate not having to deal with rust. Great video!!!

[@GarthGoldberg]

Nice work and video, Eric. Of course, none of this is going to matter when that lower control arm bracket rusts away. If your customer needs a nasty letter from a lawyer to that other shop, I'm licensed in NY. Complimentary.

[@SouthMainAuto]

+Garth Goldberg I guess it was a shop in Canada? All it was was the axle too! WOW....

[@upallnight888]

+South Main Auto Repair Hah Thats explain why the job was 700, it's 700 Canadian's dollars.

[@djtechinics97dj37]

@@upallnight888 even so still upwards of $525.00 us. and people wonder why some business erupt in spontaneous combustion lol. not that advocate any kind of violence it was besides accidental fires happen all the time. but you didn't hear that from me. I shall retreat to my cabin in the undisclosed woods.

[@movingupautodiagnostics8645]

Man it's almost midnight and I have to get up for work at 5:30... can't stop watching...

[@stuzman52]

Good find on having the correct axle installed. Lots of detective work on your part to make it right. I remember once putting an axle in and could not get it to lock on the c-clip. After about 20 minutes, I pulled it back out and after comparing the original with the remanufactured one, the groove inside the aftermarket shaft was about 0.010" further down. So much for quality control on aftermarket parts. Good work Eric...

[@SouthMainAuto]

+stuzman52 And if you ask the aftermarket about it you are the only one in the world that has ever had that problem... at least that is what they always tell me.

[@stuzman52]

Funny you should mention that! When I took both shafts to the auto parts store to show the guy the difference, I asked the guy, "Have you not had any problems with this shaft before?" And of course, the answer was no. I never even bothered with the manufacturer as you mentioned because in the past when I've dealt with them, they've never seen that problem before. Just to give you another example and not to sound babbling on, I was using autoenginuity's generic scan tool. It worked on this particular car with no problems. I updated the software and now I couldn't even connect to the same car. I called them up, told them the problem, and I got the impression that I was the idiot. And I'm reminded that they didn't do anything with the connection part of the software and that I must be doing something wrong. And after this update, I was looking at a Dodge Charger with a check engine light on. I was able to connect, but then it says there were no codes found. Unbelievable! I had to go down to the parts store to get the code read. At this point, it was goodbye to AE's software and their tech support. You just never know what you're going to get out there...Keep up the good work Eric...

[@stevenmynes6212]

I would guess your customer was charged such an excessive amount because (from what you had said) he was on a road trip (out of state maybe) And got the "tourist" prices. I'm enjoying watching your videos and am learning a lot...most of all that 'right tool for the job' rule.

[@raykrv6a]

Exactly why I have a truck under warranty. I wouldn't mind owning an older truck if I had a shop like yours to do the repairs. Too bad the customer had to pay for sloppy work the first time. Maybe he will send a link of this video to the original repair shop. Great job as always. Vids are always entertaining and educational. Thanks!

[@robhunter2435]

Just because a truck is under warranty does not mean the mechanic will fix it properly or the mechanic knows what he is doing. I try and do my own repairs if possible depending on difficulty

[@raykrv6a]

@@robhunter2435 True. My 6 year RAM Max Care Warranty was up in 2021 and RAM offered me 3 more years at $31 a month for continuing the Max Care Warranty. I took it. My RAM HD has always been dealer maintained, even for oil changes and fuel filters. My comment was 7 years old. Man, Eric looks young.

[@korlic9]

just finished watching your dodge 1500 hemi 4x4 cv axle change and one of the top comments were for you to wear some safety glasses. Its nice to see you have upgraded from safety squints Mr.O. Love the videos keep up the hard work my dude. And don't forget to shoot your bow a little!

[@tunnelportterror]

wow- great video. I've been working on cars for 40 years, and never ran into snap ring groove location variance like that, for same year/make. tried and true parts pick too- buy them all, compare for yourself, return what doesn't fit. thumbs up. thanks for posting it.

[@squirrelkilla7371]

It was probably a national chain shop who charged 4Xs the price for the parts. NTB did that to me and I had a CV axle, hub and bearing and rear drum brakes rebuilt and I was charged over $1020.

[@mafongojr164]

When you own a dodge truck they are more then just a vehicle, there are your loved one also lol. My 2000 Dodge dakota still runs like a champ but she has skin cancer :(. good luck on your Dodge and hope you can get her back on the road soon.

[@scottlundy257]

You really go that extra mile with the clean up I thought i was the only one to do that .

[@Iciielitez]

Swivel joints on your air tools are awesome. I recently got two just because from watching you. They're great in tight spots.

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

You know I have never played or dabbled with the stock market. I always felt like the stock market was a place you put money that you can afford to set fire to. But I would like to know what your absolute favorite brake cleaner brand is! I think I will buy stock in that company! Keep up the good work mr. O! You do yourself credit, your community credit and your family! You set a standard. Only with your work but with your conduct in general!

[@terrancegrant1664]

That Nano is sweet. I am certainly interested to see how well she holds up. Thanks for the vid, Eric.

[@mubeenD]

"Ba ba? Lunch is ready" That part was cute. Very interesting video to watch. It's odd that they don't put a notes section in the part so people don't make that kind of mistake when installing.

[@seashorelineone]

Good Job! Hollywood needs more people like you. Thanks

[@bulletproofpepper2]

Clicking on you video linked me to more Dakota new custom build videos. I subscribed anyway i like your videos I watched. Great info , real guy doing real fixes the right way. Thanks for sharing. Yes I’m m still working the oilfield is still a thing 5-24-2020

[@hllywd964]

You seem like a genuinely honest mechanic...wish you had a shop here on Long Island!...Keep up the good work Eric...

[@buddynorville3288]

I Really enjoy watching your videos.. I like seeing your frustrations and mind boggles and your determination to find the problem... I don't run a business, I'm considered a (Shade Tree Mechanic ) I've been working on cars since pre-teen with my Dad! Cars are a different beast now! I didn't go to school to understand all this New Technology we have today! Three pulleys was all that was needed! But that has been a few days since... Lol... Keep the videos coming! I for one enjoy them!!!

[@Splicer1970]

Stumbled upon your channel and really enjoy it!... You're very thorough and informative.... Keep it up!

[@DaPainterDude]

Eric, You are absolutely an amazing mechanic that seems as honest as one possibly can be. I wish we had mechanics like you here in the "D" Detroit. With that being said I found myself in a situation with a 2003 dodge dakota v6 4x4 front axle issue. You made a video of a dodge dakota where one of your customers got ripped off while out of town and was at the mercy of the nearest mechanic that charged $700. to put the wrong axle in the truck. Ok so I just bought a truck off someone. Right away I noticed there is a lot of play in the steering wheel. So after watching your video on how you identified the issue, I saw the exact same thing you saw, the axle shaft isnt fully seated in the CV housing. I can see the spindle threads just like you were able to see. Only mine is on the driver side front. Both inner and outer boots look to be in great shape with no tears. Passenger and driver side both look great actually. But I'm confused because the bearing and hub assembly doesn't look like it has been replaced. Which leads me to the axle bolt under the missing dust cap. I see there is a new cotter pin in the cap that hold the axle nut. Why the new cotter pin I ask myself, the hub bearing assembly hasn't been pulled. Everything behind the hub looks evenly rusted and nothing replaced. So all I can come up with that cotter pin being new is because the missing dust cap which rusted the pin and was replaced just for that reason. That axle nut doesnt look like it was ever backed out. So my question to you is what would make that shaft/axle just fall out of the CV housing. My initial thought was the same thing you discovered, the clip ring wasn't seated properly and therefore worked itself lose. The guy I purchased the truck from tells me he never had the axle replaced that he can recall. Yet to me it looks like both axle on driver side and passenger side have been replaced because the stickers on them sure dont look 12 years old. Im trying to figure out how the axle would just come lose. Maybe they jumped a curb, I have no clue. Is it possible if the bearing hub goes bad, then the axle can work its way lose? I need to get the truck on stands before I can give the wiggle test I suppose to find out if bearings are bad by rocking the tire with one hand at 12 and one hand at 6 on the tire, then 9 and 3 shake would be for the tie rods? Any suggestions would be super awesome. write back or if by some miraculous miracle you have some down time and want to call me if it would be easier. Im just recovering from back surgery and totally tapped out and need to get my truck fixed as cheap as possible. I hope u can help with some of your awesome advise. three one three three one six eight three one six or reply here. Thank you so much ahead of time for any advice u can offer me.

[@TortureBot]

Nissan dealership just quoted me over $800 to replace this same drive shaft on my wife's 2011 Rogue. Another shop just wants to replace the boot (since the shaft is fine) for about $160. I've heard it's best to go ahead and replace the whole shaft if the boot is torn like my wife's Rogue, but dang! $800+? Makes we wanna just do it myself although it would be the first time I tried this type of repair.

[@laohantun7404]

You secured another customer for life mate. Great job.

[@LoveHateSexPain311]

I lived in Cincinnati for 9 years, i do not, i repeat I DO NOT miss the rust.

[@rrmech11]

Eric great catch with the two different style axles.

[@RadioRex72]

Thanks for the tour around your beautiful community! Hope the hitchhiker thing isn't a trend. Great video!

[@stephenlawrence4362]

Mr O your videos are the best. Such knowledge is amazing

[@wyattoneable]

Poor guy. I'm glad you could do it right. I'm a DIY guy so I don't deal with customers so I'm interested... do they like hearing what you found wrong or do they just what the fix and go. Thanks Eric.

[@mikeredler4111]

Broke one of those three bolts holding the hub (your 11:41). I felt it yield and just went ahead and snapped it knowing it needed replacing. I should have soaked it in penetrant for a little longer to see it it would still go, but I got aggravated. Now I'm trying to shove wedges in to pry it straight off since the remaining bolt is acting like a pin to keep it from rotating. Yay.

[@ranmarelg]

Awesome video! Thanks for the details for diagnosing and changing out the CV axle. I was recently quoted a price of $940 from a localDodge dealer. I'm not even sure men are bad. The boots look great and there's no noise or wiggle movement.

[@jostouw4366]

Many years ago the dealership sent in a Renault 5 with clicking CV joints on both sides so I got landed with it, The shafts were new factory units and they had given up trying, After much head scratching I swapped the shafts over left to right and silence! We got a lot of extra work after that from them just shows how well they trained their staff, but sometimes you just need a little help from above.

[@richardnielson3761]

Love the impact tool its sweet and fast. Funny how aftermarket parts such as inner and outer shafts do change c clip spots noticed that when I did my cv axles on my 1997 Dakota luckily I paid attention to the c clip position.

[@hawaiianf1504]

I sent some cash to Dennis for one of those 3/8" impacts. I really like the option of having a powerful compact 3/8" gun with a stubby head that has a powerful 450 Ft/Lb. rating. Just can't beat that. Dennis said the ordered tools will ship out when he gets finished changing his duds after drooling over the SEMA show booths and all. Included in the tool money sent to him I kicked in a lil extra for a shop donation. Wasn't much mind you. Think the tool was $123.50 (ish) and I sent him $130. Only $6.50, but hey it all adds up in the end. Plus I think he also kicks in with each item he sells on items mentioned in your videos. It might end up just a tad over a dollar two ninety eight. ;)Keep On Keeping On - Y'all Rock.

[@Ottonic6]

I might have noticed the snap ring groove. I always compare the new part to the old one. Not sure if I would have looked inside to see the groove location though, but I do give it a firm (not too hard) tug after I slide it in to make sure the snap ring engaged. Then of course, I would have examined the issue. And I'm no pro. I would definitely be giving that shop a call.

[@Cheepchipsable]

That's the way to go. Always compare the new part to the old one where possible. If you know how they work, then you know when it's not working :). I think a lot of places see these as "simple" jobs, and just don't do proper diligence when putting the part on, since they seem almost fool proof, (almost being the operative word there)

[@dufus2273]

that front shock looks like rust is holding it together. on that front drive, a little investigation certainly paid-off in this instance. good job. customer should be happy now.