I just bought a 2006 Mega Cab 3500 4x4 Auto. I am going to change all the fluids. I went to Amsoil and it has so many options I just need some help with how much fluid it is going to take to change:
Differential (Front, Rear and Transfer case)
Auto Transmission
Coolant (do you mix the Amsoil coolant with water?).
Also do you guys have any preference when it comes to the gaskets and hoses? Thanks for all your help.

 

What front and rear end do you have?

 

Is there a way to tell what I have (axles and tranny) without going under the truck? I have heard my VIN will not tell me all I need to know. I sent a e mail to Dodge for a build list and it has been over a week, I was just hoping to speed up the process. Thanks.

 

There should be a stucker in your glove box that has all the build specs on your truck, at least their is in mine.

 

The front diff takes 3qts, the rear takes 4qts the oil is GL-5 synthetic 75w-90. I use 75w-140 in the rear because I tow heavy. The transfer case uses ATF+4 not sure on the amount but I think 4qts.

The coolant to use is HOAT rated, do not use anything else and don't mix with other coolants. Zerex GO-5 is your best buy. It will take about 3 1/2 gallons, about 7 gallons total when mixed 50/50 with distilled water. If you drain the cooling system, remove the plug in the head just behind the thermostat housing, fill the system until fluid comes out the hole and then replace the plug and finish filling. This will make sure that there is no air trapped in the system. Many have had trouble with the drain plug on the radiater by not getting it to close. You might want to drain by disconnecting the lower hose.

 

^ These are correct amounts, as I have just done them! I used Valvoline Synthetic 75W 90 in the front and rear.

Also, you have to auto so thats ATF +4 aswell, if it is stock. You will need approximately 7-8 qts to get it topped off. I use a 1st Gen transmission filter in mine b/c it comes without the case and allows better fluid pickup.

 

As an added note, the power steering is also ATF+4.

 

Thanks again. As you usual you guys help a Newbie out. My local shop will change out both diff and transfer case for $30, and the tranny for $30. All I need to do is buy the fluids, filters and gaskets. I will do the coolant next year, it is probably overkill, but I plan on changing the hoses regardless of their wear. I would hate for the lower one to crack and have all my new fluid everywhere. Also have the belt replaced, we are planning on trading in our trailer for a 5th wheel and taking it down to Cali next summer, and I want to make sure the truck is ready.

 

justen920,

The gaskets on the diffs are reusable. They are rubber coated steel and do not need replaceing, ever, unless one is damaged while off the diff.

 

Papaduck, that is good to know, and thank you. I just recieved my build list, I have the 48re transmission, 3.73 rear axle ratio and it says DJQS 5,200# Front Axle (what does that mean? Is that the GL-5). I will check the glove box after work.

 

Pretty certain you will have the AAM 9.25 Front Axle.

 

^^^ this is what you have in the front.