Dodge RAM 1500 1998 Owner's Manual page 181

3 - 100 REAR AXLE - 9 1/4
DIFFERENTIAL (Continued)
Fig. 38 BEARING CAPS
1 - REFERENCE MARKS
2 - REFERENCE MARKS
3 - ADJUSTER LOCK
4 - BEARING CAP
Fig. 39 COVER SEALANT
1 - SEALANT
2 - DIFFERENTIAL COVER
CAUTION: If cover is not installed within 3 to 5 min-
utes, the cover must be cleaned and new RTV
applied or adhesion quality will be compromised.
(8) Install the cover and any identification tag and
tighten cover bolts to 41 N·m (30 ft. lbs.).
(9) Fill differential with lubricant to bottom of the
fill plug hole. Refer to the Lubricant Specifications
for the correct quantity and type.
NOTE: Trac-lok™ differential equipped vehicles
should be road tested by making 10 to 12 slow fig-
ure-eight turns. This maneuver will pump the lubri-
cant through the clutch discs to eliminate a
possible chatter noise complaint.
DIFFERENTIAL-TRAC-LOK
DESCRIPTION
The optional Trac-Lok differential case has a one-
piece design and the similar internal components as
a standard differential, plus two clutch disc pack-
s.The differential pinion mate shaft is retained with
a threaded pin. Differential bearing preload and ring
gear backlash are set and maintained by threaded
adjusters at the outside of the differential housing.
Pinion bearing preload is set and maintained by the
use of a collapsible spacer. The removable differential
cover provides a means for inspection and service.
OPERATION
This differential clutches are engaged by two con-
current forces. The first being the preload force
exerted through Belleville spring washers within the
clutch packs. The second is the separating forces gen-
erated by the side gears as torque is applied through
the ring gear (Fig. 40).
This design provides the differential action needed
for turning corners and for driving straight ahead
during periods of unequal traction. When one wheel
looses traction, the clutch packs transfer additional
torque to the wheel having the most traction. This
differential resist wheel spin on bumpy roads and
provide more pulling power when one wheel looses
traction. Pulling power is provided continuously until
both wheels loose traction. If both wheels slip due to
unequal traction, Trac-lok
extreme cases of differences of traction, the wheel
with the least traction may spin.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
The most common problem is a chatter noise when
turning corners. Before removing the unit for repair,
drain, flush and refill the axle with the specified
lubricant. Add a container of Mopar Limited Slip
Additive after repair service or during a lubricant
change.
After changing the lubricant, drive the vehicle and
make 10 to 12 slow, figure-eight turns. This maneu-
ver will pump lubricant through the clutches. This
will correct the condition in most instances. If the
chatter persists, clutch damage could have occurred.
DR
operation is normal. In