Ram 1500/2500/3500: Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle Fluid Level

For normal service, periodic fluid level checks are not required. When the vehicle is serviced for other reasons the exterior surfaces of the axle assembly should be inspected. If gear oil leakage is suspected inspect the fluid level. Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts" in "Maintaining Your Vehicle" for further information.

This inspection should be made with the vehicle in a level position.

For 1500 Model axles, the fluid level should be even with the bottom of the fill hole (within 1/4 in (6.4 mm) of edge of hole) for the FDU215 HD front axle and C235FE rear axle.

For all 2500/3500 Model axles, the fluid level should be 1/4 in +- 1/4 in (6.4 mm +- 6.4 mm) below the fill hole on the 9.25 in front and 3/4 in +- 1/4 in (19 mm +- 6.4 mm) on 10.5 in rear axles. The 11.5 in rear axle level should be 1/4 in +- 1/4 in (6.4 mm +- 6.4 mm) below the fill hole.

Drain And Refill

Refer to the "Maintenance Schedule" for the proper maintenance intervals.

Lubricant Selection

Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts" in "Maintaining Your Vehicle" for further information.

NOTE: The presence of water in the gear lubricant will result in corrosion and possible failure of differential components. Operation of the vehicle in water, as may be encountered in some off-highway types of service, will require draining and refilling the axle to avoid damage.

Limited-Slip Differentials

1500 Model rear axles equipped with a Limited Slip Differential require that 5 oz. (148 ml) MOPAR Limited Slip Additive be added to the gear lubricant. Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts" in "Maintaining Your Vehicle" for further information. The MOPAR Limited Slip Additive should be added to the gear lubricant whenever a fluid change is made to an axle equipped with a Limited Slip Differential.

2500/3500 Model axles DO NOT REQUIRE any limited slip oil additive (friction modifiers).

NOTE: When refilling an axle with a Limited Slip Differential, (which requires a Limited Slip Additive), the Limited Slip Additive should be added before the gear lubricant is added to insure proper additive fill.

Transfer Case

Drain And Refill

Refer to the "Maintenance Schedule" for the proper maintenance intervals.

Lubricant Selection

Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts" in "Maintaining Your Vehicle" for further information.

Fluid Level Check

This fluid level can be checked by removing the filler plug. The fluid level should be to the bottom edge of the filler plug hole with the vehicle in a level position.

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