Changing the axle oil in the Dodge Ram differentials should be part of your normal maintenance schedule. The differential oil keeps the gears and inner workings of the differential cool, lubricated and working properly. While the process of changing the oil is the same for all the Dodge optional axles, verify what type of oil your truck requires. If you have a limited slip differential there are specific oils that should be used. Regular maintenance will keep the differential working properly for many years.
Position a wide oil drain pan directly under the center of the differential. Use a pan large enough to span the distance of the differential cover to avoid spills.
Loosen and remove the cover bolts. Leave the very top bolt in place, but loosen it about half way. Insert a flat screwdriver under the lip of the cover near the bottom and pry it open. The oil is going to come out fast so be sure that pan is under it completely.
Remove the last bolt at the top of the cover and remove the cover completely. Use a gasket scraper to remove any remaining gasket material from the differential and cover.
Clean the cover with brake cleaner and a clean rag before putting it back on the truck. Once the mounting surface is clean, install a new gasket or put a bead of RTV sealer around the perimeter.
Clean the mounting surface of the differential with a rag and some brake cleaner. Install the cover onto the differential and insert the mounting bolts. Tighten them evenly alternating bolts across from each other until the cover is tight. Be sure it is down flat on the differential.
Open the fill plug on the differential cover; on some trucks this is on the back side of the differential. Insert the tip of a squeeze bottle of 80/90 weight oil into the fill hole and fill the differential until oil starts to seep out of the hole.
Install the plug in the hole and tighten it with a ratchet. Dispose of the old oil properly. Most auto parts store will take it for recycling at no charge.
