Transfer cases, differentials and driveshafts
We pull the 4x4 driveline out of every Ram 1500 we dismantle: the transfer case, the front and rear differentials and the front and rear driveshafts, from 2009 to 2026 trucks. Two numbers decide whether a used differential fits and works with your truck: the axle ratio, printed on a tag on the differential cover, and whether the truck had the anti-spin (limited-slip) or electronic locking rear axle. We read both off the donor before a part is tagged, and we ask for yours before quoting.
Why does the axle ratio matter so much?
Because a rear differential with a different ratio from the front will fight the transfer case in 4x4 and can damage it, and because a ratio change alters the speedometer, the shift points and the towing behaviour of the truck. Ram 1500s were sold with several ratios (3.21, 3.55 and 3.92 are the common ones across these years) depending on engine, trim and the towing package. The ratio is on the differential tag; the sales code is also on the glovebox label and the window sticker. Send us either and we match it.
Which driveline parts do you carry?
| Part | What to match | Checked before removal |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer case | Generation (DS or DT), transmission type, electronic shift or manual lever, part-time or on-demand type | Shifts into 4-high and 4-low in the truck, fluid condition, no leaks at the output seals |
| Rear differential | Ratio, open / anti-spin / electronic locker, generation, brake type | Ratio tag read, backlash by hand, no whine on the road test, no leaks |
| Front differential | Ratio (must equal the rear), generation, axle disconnect type | Ratio tag read, seals, CV joints on the half shafts if included |
| Rear driveshaft | Cab and box combination (wheelbase), transmission, 2WD or 4x4 | U-joints for play, tube for dents, balance weights present |
| Front driveshaft | Generation and transfer case | Joints and boots |
Does a DS driveline fit a DT?
No. The 2019 DT sits on a new frame with Crew Cab wheelbases Stellantis lists as 144.5 inches (short box) and 153.5 inches (long box), "both four inches longer" than before, so driveshafts are different lengths, and the axles carry six-lug hubs where the DS had five. Transfer cases bolt to different transmissions (8HP75 and 850RE against the DS 8HP70, 8HP45 and 65RFE). Treat the DS and DT drivelines as two separate parts bins.
Source: Stellantis Media, All-new 2019 Ram 1500 press release, 15 January 2018. Checked 9 September 2026.Why does the driveshaft depend on the cab and box?
Because the shaft length is set by the wheelbase, and the wheelbase is set by the cab and box combination. A Crew Cab short box and a Quad Cab standard box can share a wheelbase on the DS, while a Crew Cab long box is longer still. Tell us cab, box and drive type and we will pull the right one. The bed length and cab guide explains the combinations.
What about the front axle on a 4x4?
Ram 1500 4x4s use an independent front suspension with a centre-mounted front differential and CV half shafts. We sell the differential with or without the half shafts, and the half shafts on their own, which is often all a truck with a clicking CV joint needs.
Sources
- Stellantis Media, All-new 2019 Ram 1500, 15 January 2018. media.stellantisnorthamerica.com. Checked 9 September 2026.