2006 DODGE POWER WAGON differential

LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL — IF EQUIPPED
The limited-slip differential provides additional traction
on snow, ice, mud, sand and gravel, particularly when
there is a difference between the traction characteristics
of the surface under the right and left rear wheels. During
normal driving and cornering, the limited-slip unit per-
forms similarly to a conventional differential. On slip-
pery surfaces, however, the differential delivers more of
the driving effort to the rear wheel having the better
traction.
The limited-slip differential is especially helpful during
slippery driving conditions. With both rear wheels on a
slippery surface, a slight application of the accelerator
will supply maximum traction. When starting with only
one rear wheel on an excessively slippery surface, slight
momentary application of the parking brake may be
necessary to gain maximum traction.WARNING!
On vehicles equipped with a limited-slip differen-
tial, never run the engine with one rear wheel off the
ground, since the vehicle may drive through the rear
wheel remaining on the ground. You could lose
control of the vehicle.
Care should be taken to avoid sudden accelerations when
both rear wheels are on a slippery surface. This could
cause both rear wheels to spin, and allow the vehicle to
slide sideways on the crowned surface of a road or in a
turn.
STARTING AND OPERATING 291
5

HOISTING
A conventional floor jack may be used at the jacking
locations, refer to the graphics that show jacking loca-
tions. However, a floor jack or frame hoist must never be
used on any other parts or the underbody.
CAUTION!
Never use a floor jack directly under the differential
housing of a loaded truck or damage to your vehicle
may result.
JUMP-STARTING
You should not try to start your vehicle by pushing or
towing. Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmis-
sion cannot be started this way and pushing or towing a
vehicle equipped with a manual transmission may over-
heat and damage the catalytic converter. Also, there is a
greater risk of an accident when a vehicle is being pushed
or towed. If the vehicle has a discharged battery, booster
cables may be used to obtain a start from a booster
battery or the battery in another vehicle. This type of start
can be dangerous if done improperly, so follow this
procedure carefully.
356 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

Drain and Refill
Vehicles operated in normal service do not have regularly
scheduled oil changes. If fluid has become contaminated
with water or to provide the correct viscosity grade, drain
and refill.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type.
NOTE:The presence of water in the gear lubricant will
result in corrosion and possible failure of differential
components. 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
Power Wagon AxlesDO NOT REQUIREany limited slip
oil additive (friction modifiers).
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.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type.
Front Drive Shaft
The front drive shaft contains a grease fitting which
should be serviced at every oil change (see maintenance
schedule A/B).
Manual Transmission
Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the filler
plug. If the level of the lubricant is more than 1/4” (6.4
mm) below the bottom of the filler hole while the vehicle
392 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Clock .............................176,196
Clutch............................... 391
Clutch Linkage Maintenance................ 391
Compact Disc Maintenance................. 212
Compact Spare Tire...................... 309
Compass...........................138,139
Compass Calibration..................... 139
Compass Variance....................... 140
Computer, Trip/Travel.................... 135
Console, Overhead....................... 134
Contract, Service........................ 446
Converter, Catalytic...................... 323
Cooling System......................... 385
Coolant Capacity...................... 417
Coolant Level......................... 385
Disposal of Used Coolant................ 388
Drain, Flush, and Refill.................. 386
Inspection........................... 385
Radiator Cap......................385,388Selection of Coolant (Antifreeze)......387,417,418
Temperature Gauge..................... 170
Cruise Control (Speed Control).............. 130
CupHolder ............................ 153
Customer Assistance..................... 444
Data Recorder, Event...................... 56
Daytime Running Lights................... 124
Dealer Service.......................... 369
Defroster, Rear Window.............. 88,219,223
Defroster, Windshield..................215,217
Delay (Intermittent) Wipers................. 128
Differential............................. 80
Differential, Limited-Slip.................. 291
Digital Video Disc Player................... 80
Dipsticks
Automatic Transmission................. 393
Power Steering........................ 380
Disc Brakes............................ 389
454 INDEX

Cruise .............................. 176
Daytime Running...................... 124
Fog ..........................124,174,415
Four-Wheel Drive Indicator............... 290
Hazard Warning Flasher................. 346
Headlights........................... 123
High Beam........................127,169
High Beam Indicator.................... 169
High Beam/Low Beam Select............. 127
Instrument Cluster..................... 168
Intensity Control....................... 122
Interior..........................121,134
Lights On Reminder.................... 124
Passing............................. 126
Seat Belt Reminder..................... 169
Service...........................406,407
Transfer Case......................... 290
Transmission Warning................... 175
Turn Signal..................125,168,407,410Warning (Instrument Cluster Description)..... 168
Limited-Slip Differential................291,392
Loading Vehicle......................... 324
Tires ............................... 301
Locks................................. 17
Child Protection........................ 21
Door................................ 17
Ignition.............................. 15
Keys................................ 12
Power Door........................... 18
Steering Wheel......................... 15
Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH) . 62
Lubricants............................. 396
Lubrication, Body....................... 382
LugNuts ............................. 353
Lumbar Support........................ 116
Maintenance........................... 370
Maintenance Free Battery.................. 378
INDEX 459
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