REAR AXLE AND 4X4 FRONT
DRIVING AXLE FLUID LEVEL
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks are not
required. When the vehicle is serviced for other reasons
the exterior surfaces of the axle assembly should be
inspected. If gear oil leakage is suspected inspect the
fluid level
page 308. This inspection should be
made with the vehicle in a level position.
To check the axle fluid, park the vehicle on a level sur-
face. Take a piece of wire (or zip tie) and make a
90 degree bend two inches from the end of the wire.
Insert the wire into the fill plug hole and use it like a
dipstick. Remove the wire and measure from the
90 degree bend to the oil level.
For the 2500 (Non-Power Wagon) axles, the fluid level
should be 4/5 in ± 1/4 in (20.3 mm ± 6.4 mm) below
the fill hole for the rear axle and it should be 1/4 in ±
1/4 in (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm) below the fill hole on the
front axle.
For the 2500 Power Wagon and all 3500 model axles,
the fluid level should be 1/4 in ± 1/4 in (6.4 mm ±
6.4 mm) below the fill hole on the 9.25 in front, 11.5 in
rear axle, and 12.0 in rear axle.
Drain And Refill
Refer to the “Service and Warranty Handbook (Auto
Biography)” for the proper maintenance intervals.
Lubricant Selection
For further information page 308.
NOTE:
The presence of water in the gear lubricant will result in
corrosion and possible failure of differential compo-
nents. Operation of the vehicle in water, as may be
encountered in some off-highway types of service, will
require draining and refilling the axle to avoid damage.
Limited-Slip Differentials DO REQUIRE limited slip oil
additive (friction modifiers).
NOTE:
Slight noise and mild shuddering may be evident while
turning a vehicle with limited slip differential on con-
crete or dry pavement. These conditions should be con-
sidered normal operation of the limited slip differential.
TRANSFER CASE
Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the filler
plug. The fluid level should be to the bottom edge of the
filler plug hole with the vehicle in a level position.
Drain And Refill
Refer to the “Service and Warranty Handbook (Auto
Biography)” for the proper maintenance intervals.
Selection Of Lubricant
Use only the manufacturer's recommended fluid
page 308.
FUSES
General Information
WARNING!
•
When replacing a blown fuse, always use an appro-
priate replacement fuse with the same amp rating
as the original fuse. Never replace a fuse with
another fuse of higher amp rating. The use of a
fuse with a rating other than indicated may result
in a dangerous electrical system overload. If a
properly rated fuse continues to blow, it indicates a
problem in the circuit that must be corrected.
Never replace a blown fuse with metal wires or any
other material. Do not place a fuse inside a circuit
breaker cavity or vice versa. Failure to use proper
fuses may result in serious personal injury, fire
and/or property damage.
•
Before replacing a fuse, make sure that the igni-
tion is off and that all the other services are
switched off and/or disengaged.
•
If the replaced fuse blows again, contact an autho-
rized dealer.
•
If a general protection fuse for safety systems (air
bag system, braking system), power unit systems
(engine system, transmission system) or steering
system blows, contact an authorized dealer.
278 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE