Three problems related to differential unit have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Ram 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I know of two other people who's rear ends have failed but luckily for them that they still had a little warranty let on their trucks.
This problem is in regards to the electrical system:ignition:electronic control unit. Summary of problem: intermintent surge,buck,driveline clunk, or transfer harshness. The exact same problem as described in service bulletin # 96-40, NHTSA item # sbo49106. I have been esperiencing problems with this for some time I have approached 2 different dealers ,hendrick Dodge and bumpous Dodge. They received my truck with 29,000 miles on it continued to drive till warranty expired and claimed nothing was wrong. As a result of this problem it has loosened the the rear shackles causing the rear differential to become loose and cause extreme wear on the passenger side tires. I have had absolutely no satisfaction with the either dealership this vehicle is a lemon. In the past I had to return it 7 times to have a water leak fixed, of course no documentation was given to me, at the time it never occured to me that this would be useful. Smart on their part. I would like some help dealing with this matter, as I am one individual with very little power and recourse. Thank you kevin carlson.
Consumer called about having problems with the rear end that needs the rtp rebuilt. Manufacture stated that there is nothing they can do. Dealer stated that it needs to be rebuilt. The rear pinion seal leaked differential fluid and the rear differential was very noisy. The dealer noticed that the carrier bearings and ring and pinion were worn.