Dodge RAM 1500 1998 Owner's Manual page 1556

DR
FRAME (Continued)
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REAR FRAME
H-SECTION REPLACEMENT
CAUTION: This procedure is designed to replace
the H-section/spare tire support located at the rear
of the frame assembly. Prior to any cutting, the
vehicle must be mounted on the appropriate frame
repair equipment ("frame rack"), checked with three
dimensional measuring equipment, and the neces-
sary pull corrections made. If damage remains in
the frame beyond the area covered by this service
part after the pull, the frame must be replaced in its
entirety.
(1) Before proceding with this repair procedure
review the required service warnings and precau-
tions. (Refer to 13 - FRAME & BUMPERS/FRAME -
WARNING)
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Remove the cargo box. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EX-
TERIOR/CARGO BOX - REMOVAL)
(4) Remove the trailer hitch. (Refer to 13 - FRAME
& BUMPERS/FRAME/TRAILER
REMOVAL)
(5) Raise and support the frame so the tires are off
floor.
Fig. 19 ENGINE COMPARTMENT/FRONT STRUCTURE
HITCH
(6) Remove the shock absorbers. (Refer to 2 - SUS-
PENSION/REAR/SHOCK - REMOVAL)
(7) Remove the rear leaf spring shackle bolts and
let the axle rest on the ground. (Fig. 20)
Fig. 20 REAR SPRING
1 - SPRING SHACKLE
2 - LEAF SPRING EYE BOLT/NUT
-
3 - REAR LEAF SPRING
(8) Remove the spare wheel.
FRAMES & BUMPERS 13 - 13