Supergewl,

You probably are already aware, but there was a TSB that the oil level for the rear end is supposed to be 1" below the bottom of the filler...

LINK TO TSB

When I got mine, it was pretty low and I added a quart, then the dealer called and let me know about a memo they got that later became a service bullitin...

Later trucks got a "fill line" stamped on the cover.

 

Jeff, it is my understanding that the fluid is supposed to be within 1/4'' of the fill hole. In other words, 1/4'' below the hole up to the hole is fine. NOT 1" below.

Also, I had heard that DC had shipped a bunch of trucks with the fluid real low (like SuperGewl's) that caused some problems......but once they were filled to the proper level it was fine.

 

To comment on the rusty driveshafts.

They do not come painted on mist vehicles. They are just raw metal and are allowed to rust.

I have always heard that you should not paint drive shafts. I remember it having to do with proper balance. I am not saying it is true, but I have heard that before.

 

TexasCTD,

The manual says 1/4" +/- 1/4", but my dealer called and said that level had been revised as filling it up to the plug can cause foaming and seal failure.

There were a couple of multiple page threads about the issue when it came out.

 

Jeff,

I am not trying to be argumentative with you, but the 1/4'' is what it said in the TSB you posted above. Seems like that would have been updated somehow or a new TSB in it's place.

http://dodgeram.info/tsb/2004/03-001-04A.htm


I don't remember anybody ever saying it got revised down to 1'' below the fill hole, but maybe I missed it or overlooked it.

I have a Mag-Hytec rear diff cover on mine anyway, so I just go by the magnatized dip stick.

 

TexasCTD,

I didn't take it as an argument, and I didn't notice that in the TSB. I was just posting what my dealer told me.

I do have a scan of the notice they gave me, and if you wanted to PM me with an e-mail address I'd send it to you if you like...

Anyway, you don't see many threads on either failure from low oil or from blown seals from too high an oil level, so I see it as kind of a non-issue.

Jeff

 

Jeff....I sent you a PM!

 

On my 05 the covers is rusted R.I.P. Only with 3k on it never seen any salt or snow. Anyway the MagHytecs front to rear are sweeettt!