So, I have heard (and read) about the 2004 models and their differential issues and I know several members have had them replaced. Of all the threads I read, I didn't see a chronic issue with the SRT rear ends. I've also read that if the differential is still working but just whining a bit, turn up the radio and you'll be fine.

That all being said, I have a whine between 60 and 65 MPH. Took it to the Chrysler dealer that has a Crossfire mechanic, and sure enough, he said the rear end needs replaced. I have an AUL drivetrain warranty that has about $2200 left to pay out (yes, they set a pay out max on my policy - wish I would've read the fine print) so it won't cover a new carrier. They found a used one with about 60K on it out of another SRT that they can have installed that will be covered by my $2200.

My questions to the Gurus are:

Are the SRT rear ends better (normally) than the problematic 2004 units?

Will a unit with 60K on it show the "sounds" of wear within the 12 month / 12,000 mile warranty they are giving on the part?

I know that there are no "for sures" when buying used, but I would like to hear your opinions on replacing my 92K mile carrier with a 60K mile carrier.

Thanks all!!

RL

 

I believe the experts will chime in telling you that the SRT6 rear wont work in the NA. Diffrent gearing and compatability with the ECM, TCM.......

 

My bad - I didn't make it clear that I have an SRT - just wasn't sure if the rear end problems form 2004 extended in to the 2005 models and on.

 

'04's had a different axle and it was not used after 04 so none of the SRT's had that rear.

 

the rear ends are the same the gearing is different the limited uses a 327 the srt uses a 307.

SparkieSRT6 said
I believe the experts will chime in telling you that the SRT6 rear wont work in the NA. Diffrent gearing and compatability with the ECM, TCM.......
I have a srt with the 327 gears the diff came out of an 04, yes i have the tcu modded by Rudy/speedriven so i can run the 327 gears,,I also have a tcu and 307 diff. the srt has a bigger yoke on it
the 04 had axle shafts, remove then install srt or limites one peice axle and your good to go.boyj the above have a wave-trac in them,,,you want the rear to last add the wave-trac,

I also have a stock srt rear end(Diff) that that i want to sell ,,$599.00, + shipping.



First I got a urocharge tcm and it wouldn't work. I then got one from Rudy/speedriven for the 327 it has been in my srt with a SL55 V8 for 7 months now I then got a 327 tcm from Rudy/JSBenz yes same Rudy,, and my stock tcm for the 307 gears

all crossfire diffs are the same (except Gears and stub axles in the o4.,,, srt or limited neither is stronger or weaker than the other,

buy a spare, keep the one in the car and when if it goes bad or the whine gets to you then swap it out.
rmaier said
'04's had a different axle and it was not used after 04 so none of the SRT's had that rear. diamler/chrysler changed to a one peace axle if there were any 04 rears left over they would have used them in the 05 limited cars . jim

 

Thanks Jim - that was the info I was looking for - just some reassurance that if I get a used / salvage rear end from an SRT, I most likely will not get a hold over from the problematic '04 units.

Picking up your differential for that price would be a great deal from what I am finding for used, but this is being repaired under warranty (via AUL Warranty) so they have places they deal with to get used parts.

I have located a differential from Weaver Auto for $1180 shipped to my door and I will deliver it to the dealer to have them install it. Weaver lists the part as having 60K on it and it came from VIN 1C3AN79NX5X047679. So, if there are any members out there that have access to unlimited CarFax reports, if you could run that VIN and see if the car really had around 60K on it when it was dismantled, I surely would appreciate it

DTMenace - you might update the SRT registry to that VIN as being a donor car now.

Thanks all for the input

RL

 

My diff has 53000 miles on it and for about 1/2 the cost i can send you my diff and you can deliver it to them, either way you are responsive for the condition of the rear in that's why they are leaving it up to you to find the parts. Sending you a PM jim

 

Not sure where this "problematic '04 diff" came from, but they are internally all the same. Only the axles are different.

As far as a used unit, you never know how long one will last. But it is much cheaper than a new one. FWIW, I got my spare junkyard unit for $500 out of a place in FL.

 

Some of the early model Crossfires (2004 models) had issues with premature "gear whine" in the differential. Not sure if that is what he is referencing but I know my old Limited had that problem and had the differential replaced under warranty.

OT but funny story - when the Chrysler dealer ordered my differential the first order came in was a full 3.2L motor! They returned it and got the right part. How do you screw that up?

 

Yes, Beast - that is what I am talking about.

Thanks - RL

 

Hey, Question is the rear diff the exact same as the Mercedes SLK 2002 R170 chassis? Can I used the rear diff oil that is for the Mercedes diff?
Reason - refuse to enter a Dodge dealership, but the Mercedes dealer parts guy has always been more then welcoming.
Thanks