Metallic residue on drain plug

[PJ]

Just wondering... . . . Is it normal to have the drainplug covered with metal grit at 7000 miles? I just had my 2nd oil change done and the guy at Dodge said it was normal. I say Hmmmmmmmm. Should I just wait until 15k and change it? Is the rear end ready to let go? After it sits for a day or so, it has a "clunk" when you back it out of the garage. I would just hate to be in the middle of nowhere and have it give out. Anyone have any input on this?

Thanks!

 

[PJ]

I forgt to add, its not a limited slip diff. Just standard. .

 

[thejeepdude]

Originally posted by PBJohnson2

Just wondering... . . . Is it normal to have the drainplug covered with metal grit at 7000 miles? I just had my 2nd oil change done and the guy at Dodge said it was normal. I say Hmmmmmmmm. Should I just wait until 15k and change it? Is the rear end ready to let go? After it sits for a day or so, it has a "clunk" when you back it out of the garage. I would just hate to be in the middle of nowhere and have it give out. Anyone have any input on this?

Thanks!

That is normal. There is a certain amount of metal that is going to be displaced when a new gearset is broken in. As long as the metal is very fine, a sludge made of metallic powder and oil, then it's fine. If you have any 'chunks' or bigger pieces of metal that look like shavings, then it might be something to worry about. You should notice less and less metal on the plug after each oil change...

 

[PJ]

Thanks. I feed somewhat better now. Had I not be standing behind the truck when it was checked, I mostlikely would have not known anything regarding this residue. . I will be checking it from time to time.