Hello, I have a 2001 Ram 1500 Quad Cab with a 5.9L. This problem started about a month ago and I've been dealing with it. my father thinks its the front differential, is that true?

 

Need to jack it up and taste and see. If it rotates easily forward, but, locks up in reverse, that's an internal problem, and you will have to tear into it, to see what the problem actually is. If it turns hard in either direction, try cracking open the bleeder valve on the brake caliper, and see if that frees it up. If it does, replace the soft brake line to the caliper.

Welcome to DF!

 

Welcome aboard. Provide a little more detail. Are you in 4 wheel drive when this happens or 2wd? As HeyYou suggests, jack the front up and see what happens. This is always a good read for first time posters.

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/1st-gen...our-visit.html

 

I have seen failing CV joints do that on other non-dodge vehicles. I also had a Ford Ranger with a cracked rotor that did that. Check the brakes first. If it is your CV joint you should hear some serious noise when making a tight turn in 4 wheel drive.

 

So this is a 1500 4wd with solid front axle since he says "front differential".

It reads like the brake won't let go. Definitely like what has been said, floor jack and jack stand to raise that side. Spin tests and such. Bleed all brakes. Inspect your pads, rotor, and caliper as the next step. Once ruling out brakes...gotta move to other hard parts.

 

Even the IFS has a differential, it's just mounted to the frame, instead of having axle tubes to support it.


I would do as suggested, and start with the brakes (once jacked up)

Other culprits could be a bad unit bearing, or CV as mentioned.

 

Yeah, but he stated it's a 2001. There was no IFS 4wd until 2002-3 (3rd Gen) in the half ton.

 

I do not like ifs in a truck.

 

Makes 'em ride/handle nice...... I was absolutely amazed the first time I drove one of the new Chevy trucks after the late-80's design change. Drove like a cadillac.....

 

I use to hate it with a passion, but Ive since been converted...

As posted OP you need to jack the front up and spin the wheels and look for resistance spinning it in reverse. Inspect the brakes as well. You could also open the pumpkin up and look for any shavings/ broken bits in the oil.