9 1/4 Dakota rear diff question

[JDMopar]

Hey all. Planning to replace the differential oil in my 2004 Dakota. My question is, does the pop in rubber or plastic plug on the diff cover come out pretty easy? I would rather just remove that plug, pump the old oil out and pour new in since I don't have any leaks. I just fear that the plug will break the inside part off and it will fall down into the case and I'll have to replace both it and the gasket. I just wanted to see if others had successfully removed the plug without destroying it. Not being lazy in avoiding removing the cover, but no sense making work if I don't have to, especially since it's dry as a bone at almost 20 years old!

Thanks in advance!

 

[408 swinger]

They're usually pretty robust. Kinda gently pry under the outer edge to get a "feel" for how plyable the rubber is. If that checks ok, I'll push straight under the outer lip to the center and pry it out. Usually pops right out.

 

[Professor Fate]

Yup, usually pops right out. (and back in...) It's what they're made to do. Usually have to scrape some undercoating or gunk off the plug and/or diff cover first, but I've yet to break one.

 

[JDMopar]

Thanks guys. I trust y'alls opinions and experience more than what I can see on You Tube. I'll give it a go....thanks again.

 

[niceolddart]

Maybe drive the truck a bit first to get the plug & the diff fluid warm/hot.