Dorman 986-542 Drive Shaft - Rear

Dorman 986-542 Drive Shaft for Wrangler

Dorman 986-542 is a complete rear drive shaft assembly for select Jeep Wrangler models. It is pre-balanced for installation and built with new yokes, tubes, universal joints, and a steel shaft for a direct replacement approach on the rear driveline.

Key Features

• Complete drive shaft assembly for rear application
• Pre-balanced for installation
• 100% new yokes, tubes, and universal joints
• Steel shaft construction
• Universal joint at end 1 and bolt-on connection at end 2
• Compressed length: 24.5 in; drive shaft length: 26 in
• Drive shaft wall thickness: 0.12 in; shaft diameter: 2 in
• Overall length adjustable
• Standard replacement grade

Product Details

This Dorman drive shaft, part number 986-542, is built for 2018-2022 Jeep Wrangler rear applications with Sales Code DRZ and the Next Generation Dana 44 Heavy Duty Rear Axle. It uses a steel shaft with a universal joint on one end and a bolt-on connection on the other, and it does not include CV joints or an axle nut. For buyers searching for a rear driveshaft replacement for Jeep Wrangler 2018-2022 models, Dorman 986-542 provides the key dimensions and connection style needed for a direct driveline service job.

This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 172286, 182286) for the same application.

Common Problems It Can Address

• Worn or damaged rear drive shaft assembly
• Vibration caused by driveline imbalance
• Clunking or driveline noise from worn joints
• Service replacement after shaft tube or yoke wear
• Rear driveline repair on Jeep Wrangler models with Dana 44 HD rear axle

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify rear fitment by matching the vehicle year, Jeep Wrangler model, and Sales Code DRZ with the Next Generation Dana 44 Heavy Duty Rear Axle. Confirm compressed length, drive shaft length, and connection type before installation. Inspect mating components and driveline angles during replacement to help ensure proper fit and operation. Part number 986-542 is the reference to use when ordering or confirming application details.

Quality Assurance

Dorman supplies this assembly as a standard replacement drive shaft with new yokes, tubes, and universal joints. The pre-balanced design supports a ready-to-install replacement process for the specified Jeep Wrangler rear application.