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Dorman 946-556 Drive Shaft - Rear
Dorman 946-556 Drive Shaft for Dakota
Restore driveline function with this Dorman drive shaft assembly for rear applications on the 1994-1999 Dodge Dakota. Part number 946-556 is a complete steel replacement that arrives pre-balanced for installation and uses 100% new yokes, tubes, constant velocity joints, and universal joints.
Key Features
- Direct replacement drive shaft assembly for rear Dodge Dakota applications
- Steel shaft construction with a 3-inch shaft diameter
- 58.07-inch drive shaft length with 0.065-inch wall thickness
- Slip yoke included for proper driveline engagement
- Overall length adjustable for fitment alignment
- Pre-balanced for installation readiness
- Part number 946-556 for catalog and service reference
Product Details
Dorman 946-556 is built for 1994-1999 Dodge Dakota rear driveline service where a worn or damaged shaft needs replacement. The assembly is made from steel and supplied as a complete drive shaft with new yokes and tubes, helping simplify the repair process while maintaining the correct driveline dimensions. This rear drive shaft for Dodge Dakota models is a practical choice when the original shaft shows vibration, wear, or physical damage. This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 172286, 182286) for the same application.
Common Repair Uses
- Driveline vibration caused by a bent or out-of-balance shaft
- Clunking or driveline noise from worn shaft components
- Damage to the original shaft tube or yokes
- Loss of smooth power transfer to the rear axle
- Service replacement for a high-mileage Dodge Dakota rear driveshaft
Installation Notes and Tips
Fits 1994-1999 Dodge Dakota, rear. Verify shaft length, slip yoke engagement, and driveline alignment before installation. Inspect related driveline components, including mounts and U-joint interfaces, so the replacement shaft can be installed on a clean, properly measured assembly point. Part number 946-556 should be matched to the vehicle application before service.
Quality Assurance
Dorman supplies this drive shaft as a pre-balanced replacement assembly with new core driveline components for service-ready installation. The design focuses on restoring factory-style driveline function for Dodge Dakota rear applications.
| Brand | Dorman |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 946-556 |
| Shaft Material | Steel |
| CV Joints Included | No |
| Grade Type | Regular |
| Shaft Diameter | 3 |
| Slip Yoke | Yes |
| Axle Nut Included | No |
| Drive Shaft Length (In) | 58.07 in |
| Drive Shaft Wall Thickness (In) | 0.065 in |
| Greaseable Drive Shaft | No |
| Overall Length Adjustable | Yes |
| Package Contents | 1 driveshaft |
This part fits 6 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Body Type | Bed Length | Drive Type | Transmission | Wheel Base | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Dodge | Dakota | Standard Cab Pickup | 6' 6" Foot Bed | RWD | Automatic | 111.9" | Rear | |
| 1998 | Dodge | Dakota | Standard Cab Pickup | 6' 6" Foot Bed | RWD | Automatic | 111.9" | Rear | |
| 1997 | Dodge | Dakota | Standard Cab Pickup | 6' 6" Foot Bed | RWD | Automatic | 111.9" | Rear | |
| 1996 | Dodge | Dakota | Standard Cab Pickup | 6' 6" Foot Bed | RWD | Automatic | 111.9" | Rear | |
| 1995 | Dodge | Dakota | Standard Cab Pickup | 6' 6" Foot Bed | RWD | Automatic | 111.9" | Rear | |
| 1994 | Dodge | Dakota | Standard Cab Pickup | 6' 6" Foot Bed | RWD | Automatic | 111.9" | Rear |
* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.