Hello all, I have an 03 Dakota 4x2, 10 bolt round cover, 8.25 ring gear, 3.55 ratio, I ordered a used rear axle like what I own now but I received an 04 rear axle with everything being the same except for the year and the rear axle cover being hex instead of round, what I'm wanting to find out is if the rear axle I received will work on my truck or not before I go through the process of sending it back, because if it will work I'd rather use it instead of going through all the hassle of doing a return. Any help and advice would be appreciated.

 

Hex, as in 12 bolts means it's a 9 1/4. It will boot in. Not sure about the driveshaft length. Hopefully someone else does.

 

I do believe the 9.25 pinion snout is longer, requiring a shorter driveshaft. I could also be wrong, though.