I have 2000 dodge ram 1500 sport 5.9 2wd and I want to change my rear differential fluid because I don't think it was replaced by the previous owner, I have a Chrysler 9.25 anti spin rear axle 3.55 gear ratio (this is coming from a build sheet dodge sent me). well I called a local fluid change shop here and they said it takes synthetic so it will cost $99 to get it replaced. is this a good price? what gear oil does the truck take? I read on here synthetic is for heavy duty and this truck doesn't tow or haul anymore, its just being used as a daily driver. I'd be open to doing this myself if there is not that much to it. also, how much would a good price be for it to be replaced by a shop?

 

this is a perfect job for you to do yourself.
http://www.pavementsucks.com/tech-article-4.html

you can get your gear oil from walmart in a gallon jug for about $14. either 85w90 or 75w140, it doesn't matter which one.sqirt
it'll take about 2-1/2 quarts.
you'll need to devise a way to pour the oil in. like pour it in a used quart oil container, then squirt it in.
don't waste money on the little pumps. it'll break.
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Super-Tech...allon/16795066


you also need the little 4-6 oz bottle of friction modifer. walmart might have it, or parts store if they don't
http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/de...il+-+additives

 

thanks for everything and what socket should be used for taking the bolts off? 5/8?

 

no, they're little. more like 7/16 or 12mm.

use a stiff putty knife to separate the cover from the diff. don't bend the cover and don't scar the diff face.

 

okay thanks, should I buy a new gasket or use RTV sealant?

 

Bead of RTV should do.

 

okay great well I priced how much everything would cost. DIY= about $50 that definitely beats the $99 Valvoline oil change would charge me lol

 

Here's a better looking (to me) DIY of the job, https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...cover-off.html

 

$14 for walmart gear lube.
$8 for friction modifier.
$5 for rtv
$4 for a can of brake cleaner to clean the bottom of the diff.
1/2 wrench, putty knife, paper towels, wire brush.
i only come up with $31.

clean the magnet in the bottom. don't be surprised if you find broken fragments of clutch retaining clips. its common in these lsd's

 

I'm getting a oil drop pan for this and future fluid changes. and one final question, as far as tightening the bolts back up. how tight should I tighten them? I don't have a torque wrench. I know not to tighten all the way that I cant turn any further.