Differential Low @ 1700 mi Dealer Liability?

[ImagesThatSing]

After joining TDR last week and reading many posts, I decided to check my rear differential after 1700 miles on odometer, and it was low (little finger to first knuckle low). I stopped by the dealership, and they agreed to have the mobile unit that is scheduled early next week to replace the frozen hood support piston, to also check and add fluid as needed to both differentials. I am going to ask him at that time to check the transmission (6 speed) fluid level at that time and add as necessary.



However, after reflection, I am wondering about damage already done, and if I should make sure that I have a receipt signed, dated and with mileage of these actions in case of damage that occurs later to these components.



We have an enhanced/wrap 7 year 70K warranty, but that doesn't cover:

1. what damage is done and could show up after warranty.

2. cost and inconvenience while covered repairs (after deductible $100) are being done.

3. concern that an accident may result as has been reported by those with this problem.



We are new to the forum, and am wondering about those who know about covering the necessary bases for a long term protection.



Thank you for your help.

 

[lschultz]

I would make them put it in writing that they were low. If something does happen later you have that piece of paper.

 

[msimmons]

If you checked your diff when it was cold, the slightly low level of fluid (one little finger knuckle) is OK. The factory recommends the fill level to be within 1/4' of the fill aperture. The reason for this is because as the fluid heats up, it expands and if you checked the diff when it was hot, it likely would have been right up to snuff.



There should be no damage to your diff from this, I wouldn't give it a second thought.



Mike

 

[Steve M]

The owner's manual says 1/4" +/- 1/4" so 1/2" below the fill hole would still be within specs according to the book. I checked and filled mine at around 1700 miles too. It was 1. 7 quarts to the fill hole cold. I just filled it and forgot about it. No harm done.

 

[Parshal]

I just came in from checking all my fluids (except the transfer case, I couldn't get the fill plug open) and had to put 1/2 - 3/4 quarts in the rear and 1/4 quart in the front differentials (cold). I have nearly 17,000 miles on mine!



The fluid in the transmission started coming out before I got the plug out so my transmission noise definitely ain't low fluid. I was hoping it would be easy!

 

[navyramman]

Well, reading all of the links I can find on Fluid levels on transfer case and axle's, and looking in the book that came with the truck, ?

here is my question or two.



1, is there 75W-90 Synthetic in the Axle now from the dealer? it tells you in the book to use that. Should I change it all out to Synthetic from the auto parts store?



2. How much is in the front and rear axle?



3. Is it worth it to dump the ATF+4 automatic trans fluid in the transfer case and go to synthetic? or just add slick 50 ATF to it?



Have not checked the levels in them yet, It is now snowing hard here in St. Louis.

Greg

 

[msimmons]

Originally posted by navyramman

Well, reading all of the links I can find on Fluid levels on transfer case and axle's, and looking in the book that came with the truck, ?

here is my question or two.



1, is there 75W-90 Synthetic in the Axle now from the dealer? it tells you in the book to use that. Should I change it all out to Synthetic from the auto parts store?



Your Ram came from the factory with synthetic axle fluid. There is no need to change it until the recommended maintenance interval.



2. How much is in the front and rear axle?



I don't recall seeing the exact axle capacities in the FSM, but if you refill them to the level of the fill plug +/- 1/4" you can't go wrong.



3. Is it worth it to dump the ATF+4 automatic trans fluid in the transfer case and go to synthetic? or just add slick 50 ATF to it?



You can use synthetic ATF in the transfer case, but for most folks in moderate climates there is little or no value. Slick 50 and other additives like them are a waste of money IMHO



Have not checked the levels in them yet, It is now snowing hard here in St. Louis.

Greg

 

[navyramman]

Thank you very much.

Greg

 

[pecandude1]

I checked mine after reading the post rearend locked up at 530miles and found it 1in a half quarts low cold. somebody needs to slap the bean counters at chrysler