Attention: TDR Forum Junkies 
After having the rear pinion seal twice by Dodge (while under warrenty) it failed again 60K miles later... 20K past warrenty.
Had it replaced today at a shop that specializes on drivelines, etc. Although the parts were ordered for an '02 Ram the seal kit that was sent was for a First Generation Dana 80. All the critical measurements are the same with the only difference being that the Second generation has a dust cap with a rubber type "o ring" style seal. Inspection of the area behind the failed "dust cap/seal" showed it was marginal at best at keeping dirt out.
I was told today that this First Generation Seal Kit should work just fine.
I do see, however, that the shiney part of the pinion yoke (that was behind the dust cap) will now be exposed to the elements.
Am curious if the retro-grade seal kit, minus the dust cap/seal, is a problem waiting to happen... which maybe why there was a change made between the First and Second Generation Dana 80 seal kits.
Any thoughts would be most appreciated.
Had it replaced today at a shop that specializes on drivelines, etc. Although the parts were ordered for an '02 Ram the seal kit that was sent was for a First Generation Dana 80. All the critical measurements are the same with the only difference being that the Second generation has a dust cap with a rubber type "o ring" style seal. Inspection of the area behind the failed "dust cap/seal" showed it was marginal at best at keeping dirt out.
I was told today that this First Generation Seal Kit should work just fine.
I do see, however, that the shiney part of the pinion yoke (that was behind the dust cap) will now be exposed to the elements.
Am curious if the retro-grade seal kit, minus the dust cap/seal, is a problem waiting to happen... which maybe why there was a change made between the First and Second Generation Dana 80 seal kits.
Any thoughts would be most appreciated.
