Should a Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 axle have a groove in it right where the wheel bearings are at?

[Charity]

I have a 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 (360 motor). We went to change the wheel bearings and when we pulled out the axle, there is a groove about the same width as the bearings. Is that suppose to be like that or is it suppose to be all straight?

[dodge man9247]

no,if the groove is cut real deep in to it you,ll have to replace the axle in it,they suppose to fit fairly tight once installed,that groove is an indication that the truck has done a lot of heavy hauling before,most of the ones that i see that are like this you have to replace the axle on them,its worn out is what is wrong with it,i changed mine in my 98 and it was still smooth,if you install new bearings on it, it won't last as long and will probably cause premature bearing failure on it,good luck.
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