First Generation Half-Shaft (Axle) Upgrade

Drag racers have been looking for ways to upgrade their first generation half-shafts for quite some time.  Various different products have come to the market in response.  Some didn't work, some required knuckles from other vehicle applications, and some just were priced unreasonably.  Now first generation Neon owners can upgrade their half-shafts with OEM parts and benefit from the largest torque capacity half-shafts available.

The left (driver) half-shaft comes from the old p-body (Duster, Shadow) application with a 3.0L V6 motor.  The right (passenger) half-shaft comes from the PT Cruiser platform.  These half-shafts install into the transmission in the same manner as the Neon OEM half-shafts.  The hub and bearing in each knuckle will need to be swapped with a 2000 Neon hub and bearing to accommodate the new half-shaft spline pattern.  In addition, the 2000 Neon hub washer, hub nut, and castle nut package will need to be installed on the new half-shafts.

Many of these parts can be found economically from the local salvage yard.  I've also listed Forum Dodge's prices on new components for those that prefer to use new components or can't find other means to source the parts.  Here's what you need:

^* Please note that ordering 06500336 will ship you eight cotter pins.  You will have six extra cotter pins.

^t It is recommended that the wheel bearing retaining plate or snap ring bearing retainer be replaced during this upgrade.  If you are installing the hub and bearing into a 1995-96 style knuckle the bearing is retained by the snap ring bearing retainer.  If you are installing the new hub and bearing into a 1997-99 style knuckle the bearing is retained by the wheel bearing retaining plate.