I have seen this asked quite a few times and for the most part I didn't see much on it either via direct answers or searches. I myself have wanted to convert my 1998 Ram to rear disc like I did to my 1998 Durango, but it seemed like it would be more difficult with the understanding that the 2nd Gen Ram didn't have a rear disc option.

I have located a 2002 disc rear axle, with the same 3.55 gears as my 1998, and I am wondering how much will need to be changed to get the 3rd Gen Ram axle under my 2nd Gen truck.

I know the wheel bolt pattern is the same. I am confident the line fittings are the same. What I am unclear about, are the connections at the input and the shock mounts.

True, some clever welding can fix shock mount location issues, and a jumper joint can fix any differences between joint sizes, but I would rather know beforehand if it'll more or less bolt right in.

Does anyone have any specific knowledge between the two different axles and their mounting styles?

 

Get a late model 2500 with rear disc brakes. Get a axle upgrade and rear disc brakes with much less hassle. Rear junction box is not the same.


Need that new soft line with the box, and a prop valve and you're ready to roll.also need the brake lines for the disc brakes obviously

 

Don't the 2500 trucks have the 8 lug pattern?

 

yes the axles are 8 lug. heavy duty. And better in every way.

If you go that route you can get plenty of help from us here. I just did this swap.

If you go the third gen you will be going into new territory. A couple people have talked about it, but i havent actually seen a swap been done

 

I'll pass on the 2500 axle. I have no need of an axle that heavy duty, nor do I like the wheel options. I actually just put on a set of 2008 chrome wheels that I am very happy with and I would prefer to keep the pattern so I can keep the wheels.

I understand that worst case scenario, there will be welding involved, and best case, it's a bolt in, with a new small part purchases.

 

Be sure to post up on what you find out and do. Be interesting to see what is actually different.

 

Did the third gen half tons still use the 9.25 rear end?

 

I would like to know that as well.

 

According to theory, it is indeed the corporate 9.25.... disk swap *should* just bolt on.....

 

So you're thinking the shock mounts would be the same, as well as the drive shaft U-joint?