Okay, I've decided to change my differential fluid this weekend. I think I'm getting a bit paranoid about it. I did a dry run in my driveway today. What do you use to take the bolts off? A ratchet or a wrench? Is that a 14mm head? It seems like that size fits the best. No need for sealant around the gasket, right? From what I've read, it's re-useable, contrary to the DC manual which says to run a bead of sealant around the gasket. When I go to torque, 20-22 foot pounds, right? I know Dodge says 30 but, it seems a few have had broken bolts. That would set my hyper Edit in a panic mode.

It looks simple, am I missing anything?

Thanks> B. P. Fife

 

Fill out your sig so we know you're talking about a 3rd gen truck.

For '03 and newer you can re-use the gasket with no sealant. Use 75-90w GL-5 rated synthetic fluid. If 14mm fits best, use that with a ratchet. It is an easy job.

 

Sorry! For now here's the details....

2006 3500 5.9 SRW 4 X 4 no mods.

 

Same for the front however you will have to raise the truck from the frame (let the axle drop) so the suspension components clear the the front diff bolts.

 

Since they are metric fasteners, it is best to use metric tools. One other thing, use six-point sockets, twelve-point sockets have a tendency to strip the heads on nuts and bolts in the hands of an amateur mechanic. In a one to ten banana scale, it is about ½ banana!!!

 

It's a real easy job. You won't have any trouble. Put a big pan under the diff. Loosen the bottom bolts first and it will start draining. The gasket is reusable, no sealant required. Once you get the cover off, clean it with some parts cleaner (spray can is easy). Mop out the residue in the housing with some paper towels. Wipe down the gasket and put everything back together. Don't over-tighten the bolts, just nice and snug. If you have a torque wrench, use it. I went back in with 75W-140 AMSOIL Synthetic, as I tow the heavy toy hauler in my signature. You can go with 75W-90 or 75W-110. All these will work just fine. Depends on how you use your rig. There is no down-side to using the 75W-140, that is worth some thought. They all flow like a 75 weight oil in the winter, but the 140 gives you better protection in the warmer climates and under heavy loads.

 

Thanks guys. I'll start my deep breathing excersices tomorrow. I have what I need (I think) and I'm prepared for tinkering.

 

I did it and i had never done it before, it was very easy and i had no leaks. i used amsoil 75w90 like the book said.