I just finished dumping all the drive line fluids in my truck (06 1500). I've read so many threads on the clutch retaining clips, it had me worried.

The oil in the front diff was well used, and had metal in it, but nothing overly concerning.

The rear diff oil was very clean, but the magnet was full of metal, I assume someone just sucked the diff out and changed the fluid. There were no clutch retaining clips out and loose, I checked to see if I could pull the one out, and it just slid back and forth a little. I decided to leave them in there.

Were the clutch retaining clips changed in 06? Most of the threads I've read have been 04 trucks it seems. Should I have pulled them out?

 

I just left my clips in, too. They were snug with little/no play. I didn't want to get to the point where they were broken but wouldn't come out.

 

Yeah, mainly it was the earlier year trucks whereas the later models didnt have the same issue as we did. Still, you did the right thing by checking and making sure

 

mid 2005 was the start of the "revised" retaining clips. While they still aren't a proper fix, they get most guys by without issue's. They changed manufacturers/metals so the 2006+ trucks are far less common to have the issue...BUT it can still happen and it does still happen. Removing the clips does damage to the carrier over time. Removing them is NOT a correct fix either.

 

What years interchange? I have an 02 1500 with 3.55s and access to an 06 1500 with 3.92s. I am staying with stock tires 245/70/17 just want to stay in overdrive on those gentle Kansas hills.

 

Good to hear...thanks guys.

 

Are you wanting to swap entire rear ends or the clips that are being discussed in this thread?

rear ends you can swap, the clips however are not a simple remove and replace. From what I have read once you get them out, your not getting them back in without tearing apart your entire rear end. The clips original purpose was to aid in assembly and to stay in place once assembled.

nateroach

 

I bougth some replacement clips from the dealer for about $7.50. I was hoping I could take the diff apart and replace the clips myself, but I found that I need special tools. Next fluid change I will take it in to a shop and have them pull the diff and replace the clips. I figure this is cheaper than upgrading to an aftermarket diff, but I have not run the numbers to be sure.