1998.5-2002 Dodge 5.9L Cummins Front Differential Covers

Front differential covers for the 1998.5-2002 Ram 5.9L Cummins

Four-wheel-drive Rams of this generation use a Dana 60 front axle with a 9.75 in ring gear, ball joints and 1480 u-joints. Front engagement on most of these years is the vacuum-operated Center Axle Disconnect, which was phased out by 2002; some 2002 trucks came with locking hubs instead. Two-wheel-drive trucks have no front differential, so nothing on this page applies to them.

Stock cover vs. finned aluminum

A factory cover that's straight and sealing is fine to reuse. A finned aluminum Mag-Hytec cover adds fluid capacity, a dipstick for checking the level, and a drain plug, so you can change fluid without breaking the cover seal. On any Dana 60 front cover you can seal with RTV or, if you prefer, a cover gasket.

What we carry

Mag-Hytec 60-DF Dana 60 front covers, in a standard version listed for 1989-2002 and a vented version listed for 2002 5.9L Cummins trucks. The ATS Diesel Performance 402-009-1000 drain plug fits ATS pans and differential covers. Gear oil to refill the axle is in our differential fluid collection, and the rest of the truck is on the Cummins hub.

Fitment notes

Match the cover to your model year: the vented 60-DF is listed for 2002 and the standard 60-DF for 1989-2002. 2002 is also a transition year for this axle, since CAD was being phased out and some trucks got locking hubs, so verify by VIN. If the front axle is leaking and the cover seal looks good, the cover may not be the problem: on 1998.5-1999 trucks, too much caster from adjustable ball-joint sleeves can bind the axle and cause axle-shaft seal leaks. Keep caster near 3.5-4 degrees.

Frequently asked questions

Which front cover fits my 2002 Ram?

The Mag-Hytec 60-DF comes in a standard version listed for 1989-2002 and a vented version listed for 2002 5.9L Cummins trucks, so either can show up for a 2002. If you can't tell which your truck needs, call us with your VIN.

Does a Mag-Hytec cover need more gear oil?

Yes. The finned cover adds capacity, so plan on extra gear oil at the first fill. The dipstick lets you check the level without pulling the fill plug.

Not sure what fits? Call the shop at the number in the header, or use the fitment checker on any product page. We install everything we sell.