Changing Rear Differential Fluid?

[TK666]

Good morning.

im planning on changing the fluid in the rear differential.

I have all the Amsoil fluids to do the replacement.

I’ve watched a few videos on YouTube and talked with a few others and figured I’d ask here as well.

When I have the rear open and do a visual inspection, I’ll wipe all the oil out that is sitting and wipe off parts when inspecting them.

I’ve seen where they sprayed the inside with brake cleaner on 1 or 2 videos, and one guy said he did that.

Others never said they did. I didn’t bring it up; I was curious about what they did.

Any thoughts?

Overkill?

I’m also changing the cover to one with a drain plug to make it easier for future changes, which I guess I’d remove at 2 or 3 change intervals for visual inspection.

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[Channelbouy]

This is also on my “To do soon” list.

I have heard/read the same thing about spraying with brake Kleen and draining the fluid.

The only thing I am unsure about is if that stuff is good for any seals it might come in contact with.

I don’t have any experience with changing the fluid so hopefully someone with more knowledge will comment.

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[watersupply189]

I personally drain, wipe out what I can, and visually inspect, then refill.

Brake cleaner won’t hurt a thing besides seals so use caution if you go that route.

Are you planning to do the front differential also?

Every RAM truck I’ve owned has water inside, and I never even drive in deep water.


2016 Ram Laramie 3500, G56, 6.7, CC, 4x4

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[TK666]

Yes, I’ll be doing the front as well.

I will skip the brake cleaner.

I didn’t think it necessary, but getting other opinions never hurts.

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[AK Bob]

I agree; a quick wipe-down with a lint-free rag should suffice for your visual inspection.

If you need brake cleaner, use sparingly to avoid the seals.

Once you install the cover with a drain plug, I will open it up and inspect every other fluid change.

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[Channelbouy]

I installed the PML cover this morning.

Two questions: It only took 3.75 qts with the new cover until oil started coming out of the small hole on the side, and it seems it should have taken more.

Next is the screw at the 2’oclock with the plastic pc holding lines; when torquing to 20 ft-lb, the plastic would compress.

Any ideas or tips?

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[Channelbouy]

This is the clip/support I am referencing.

Mine is plastic; do they make something in metal?

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[AK Bob]

This is the clip/support I am referencing.

Mine is plastic; do they make something in metal?

IMG_6857.jpg

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[Channelbouy]

Thanks for the suggestions!

I will try those!!

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[Channelbouy]

It worked like a charm!

Went for a short test drive and checked the level when I got home.

I ended up using another half quart. 4 quarts were used in total.

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