How do I identify my RAM differential Ram 1500?

To identify the RAM differential on your Ram 1500, you'll need to locate the differential cover on the rear axle. The differential is the component that allows the wheels to spin at different speeds, which is crucial for turning corners. By inspecting the differential cover, you can determine the type of differential your Ram 1500 has.

Locating the Differential Cover

The differential cover is typically located on the rear axle, near the center of the vehicle. It's a round, metal cover that protects the internal components of the differential. To access the differential cover, you may need to remove any skid plates or other undercarriage components that are in the way.

Identifying the Differential Type

Once you've located the differential cover, you can identify the type of differential by looking for the following features:

• Gear Ratio: The gear ratio is typically stamped or engraved on the differential cover. This will tell you the gear ratio of the differential, which can range from 3.21:1 to 4.10:1 or higher on a Ram 1500.


• Limited-Slip Differential: If your Ram 1500 has a limited-slip differential, you'll see the letters "LSD" or "Trac-Lok" stamped on the differential cover.


• Locking Differential: A locking differential, also known as a "locker," will have the letters "LOCKER" or "LOCK" stamped on the cover.

Knowing the type of differential in your Ram 1500 can be important for understanding its capabilities, such as its towing capacity, off-road performance, and overall handling characteristics.

Conclusion

Identifying the RAM differential on your Ram 1500 is a straightforward process that involves locating the differential cover and inspecting it for key identifying features. By understanding the type of differential in your vehicle, you can better optimize its performance and capabilities to suit your driving needs.

Does the VIN number tell you the gear ratio?

You may be able to tell the gear ratio from a vehicle's VIN by using an online VIN decoder, though not all manufacturers include this information in the VIN itself. If the gear ratio is included, it will likely be in the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS), which are the 4th through 8th digits of the VIN. For many vehicles, a sticker on the driver's side door jamb or on the vehicle's build sheet or owner's manual is a more reliable way to find the gear ratio. 
How to check the VIN

• Use an online VIN decoder: Enter the full VIN into a free online decoder. Some manufacturers have their own decoders, such as Mopar's decoder. 
• Look for the gear ratio code: Some VINs will have a code within the VDS that represents the gear ratio (e.g., "3731"). 
• Consult the manufacturer: If the VIN decoder doesn't provide the information, contact the vehicle manufacturer for assistance. 

Other methods to find the gear ratio

• Check the vehicle sticker: Look for a sticker on the driver's side door jamb or on the vehicle's build sheet. This sticker often contains detailed information about the vehicle's equipment, including the axle ratio. 
• Look at the differential: Some differentials have a metal tag with the gear ratio stamped on them, or there may be a sticker on the axle itself. 
• Consult your owner's manual: The owner's manual or other paperwork from the vehicle's purchase often lists the gear ratio. 

How do you tell which differential you have?

You can determine your differential type by checking for a tag on the differential, performing a spin test with the wheels off the ground, or by using visual cues like the cover bolt count and shape. 
Method 1: Perform the spin test 

1. Secure the vehicle safely, jack up both rear wheels off the ground, and place it in neutral. 
2. Spin one rear wheel forward by hand. 
3. Observe the other rear wheel. 
   • If the other wheel spins in the same direction, you have a limited-slip or "posi" differential. 
   • If the other wheel spins in the opposite direction, you have an open differential. 

This video demonstrates how to perform the spin test to identify your differential type: 55s1974chevrolet C10YouTube · Feb 21, 2021
Method 2: Look for a tag or VIN information 

1. Differential tag: Look for a metal tag on the differential housing, often under a cover bolt or on the axle tube, which may have codes for gear ratio or limited-slip status. 
2. VIN: Check your vehicle's VIN using a VIN decoder or your original window sticker, as some manufacturers include the gear ratio in the VIN. 

This video explains how to check the VIN and differential tag for information: 50sVehicle FreakYouTube · Oct 23, 2023
Method 3: Use visual cues 

1. Cover bolt count: Note the number of bolts holding the differential cover on. Common counts are 10, 12, or 14 bolts.
2. Cover shape: Different differentials have distinctively shaped covers.
3. Ring gear: The diameter of the ring gear can help identify the differential type, though this requires disassembly.
4. Pinion support: Check if the differential has a pinion support, where the pinion assembly unbolts from the front of the housing, which indicates certain types like a 9-inch Ford or 14-bolt GM. 

You can watch this video to learn how to identify your differential by visual cues: 58sYukon Gear & AxleYouTube · Oct 3, 2017

How do I know if my Ram 1500 has a limited slip differential?

Whether your Ram 1500 has a limited-slip differential depends on its model year and original options. You can check for a limited-slip differential by looking for a tag on the rear axle, consulting the owner's manual, checking the VIN with a dealer, or performing a simple physical test by rotating the wheels when the rear is on jack stands. 
Methods to check for a limited-slip differential

• Check the differential tag: Look for a sticker on the rear axle that may indicate the gear ratio and if it has a limited-slip (often labeled as "Limited Slip" or "LSD"). 
• Examine the owner's manual: The manual should specify the type of differential that came with your truck. 
• Provide the VIN: A dealership service department can look up your truck's specific build information using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 
• Perform the wheel rotation test: With the rear wheels off the ground and the transmission in neutral, spin one rear wheel by hand. 
  • If the other wheel spins in the same direction, your truck likely has a limited-slip differential. 
  • If the other wheel spins in the opposite direction, it is likely an open differential. 
• Perform a "burnout" or "brake stand": This method is less precise but can give an indication. If both rear tires spin, you likely have a limited-slip differential. If only one tire spins, it's probably an open differential. 

How to tell if RAM has 3.92 rear axle ratio?

You can tell if a Ram has a 3.92 rear axle ratio by checking the vehicle's original window sticker, looking for a metal tag on the rear differential, or by entering the VIN into an online decoder. Another method is to check the build sheet, which may be located under the hood or can be accessed through the Ram app. 
This video explains how to check the gear ratio of your vehicle: 59sWebWheelerYouTube · Apr 10, 2018
Method 1: Check the tags and stickers 

• Differential cover tag: Look for a small metal tag attached to one of the bolts on the rear differential cover. It will have the gear ratio stamped on it, such as "3.92".
• Axle sticker: There may be a sticker on the axle itself that indicates the ratio. 

Method 2: Use your Vehicle Information

• Original Window Sticker: Look up your original window sticker online by using your VIN. Many websites allow you to do this for free. 
• VIN Decoder: Enter your vehicle's VIN into an online VIN decoder to get the full build sheet, which will include the axle ratio. 
• Ram App: Download the official Ram app. The vehicle's equipment information, including the axle ratio, can often be found in the digital glove box or vehicle equipment section. 
• Build Sheet: If you have a physical build sheet, it will contain the axle ratio information. 

Method 3: On-vehicle inspection (if tags are missing)

• Mark and spin: This is a more old-school method. With the truck on a lift, mark the driveshaft and a single rear wheel. Rotate the wheel one full revolution and count how many times the driveshaft rotates. A 3.92 ratio means the driveshaft will spin slightly over 4 times for one wheel rotation.