I'm wanting to know what type fluid I will need an if any nonstop additive is needed for changing rear differential fluid on my 02 Dakota 3.9 6 cyl 2wd ..Is any friction modifier needed?
Also how much is needed an what is the torque for bolts? What brand is recommended too.
Any other info or what to look at when cover is off is apreciated.

 

You only need a friction modifier if you have a Trac-Lok differential. Do you know if you have limited slip?

The cover bolt torque is 30 foot pounds. Dodge does not use a gasket, but you can buy one. They use RTV. Make sure it is rated for gear oil. Any brand you want should be fine.

You'll need 4.7 pints for the 8 1/4" rear axle. 4.9 for the 9 1/4".

 

How do I find out if I need limited slip type ,would it be thru vin# an dealer?

 

Follow this thread to get a build sheet. It'll list all your options.

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...ur-dakota.html

 

Thanks for all the helpful info.
I called dealer with vin# an found I have basic dif no limited slip but what was off is that their recommendation on the weigh of oil was different than all the parts stores an your recommendation. They said to use 75-140 synthetic..Everyone else said 75-90.
​​​I like to use a gasket on seal,they said there's no gasket an to use silicone.

​​​​would you go with what dealer said on type an also synthetic /silicone?
Going from 90 to 140 is quite a difference.
Thanks

 

You'll note I didn't specify what viscosity. It's different for the 8 1/4 and 9 1/4" rear end.

It also changed, around 2002/2003 for some of the differentials. For example in '01 the 9 1/4 called for 75w-90 and in '03 went to a 75w-140.

The 8 1/4 called for 80w-90 until '01. Not sure if it changed after.

What does your owners manual say?

You do not have to use a synthetic gear oil. You can if you like, but it is not required.

 

How do I tell if it's 8 1/4 or 9 1/14

I know it should be simple but I'm unsure an don't know what it has in it now or type an weight.

So it's ok if old was non synthetic an I put in new as synthetic ?

 

Look at the cover on the differential.

The 8 1/4" has 10 bolts. The 9 1/4" has 12 bolts.

Yes, you can change it to synthetic.

 

Thanks its a 10 bolt.

I did find out some 02 an up changed to heavier weight so yes the 75 140 synthetic is what I will use as dealer said an some internet charts ive found. ,I'll carry a trailer at times also an temperature at times can get in high 90s so that will be best.
Also was told if it has antislip in it it's ok even if I don't require it.
​​I will use grey permatex on both sides of gasket also..
I think the torque is 30 .
Any other info is appreciated

Thanks.

 

Looks good.