SPELAB Differential Cover: Best for Ford, Dodge, and Chevy Models

Discover the SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover, designed for superior cooling, protection, and vehicle performance.

1.Product Overview

What is a Differential Cover?

A differential cover is a crucial component of your vehicle's drivetrain. It protects the differential gears and lubricating fluid, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. By shielding these critical parts, the differential cover helps prevent damage and prolongs the lifespan of your vehicle's differential system.

SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR Differential Cover Kit Overview

The SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover is designed to enhance your vehicle's performance. This innovative product extends the lubricant's life, maintains fuel economy, and dissipates heat faster than any other cover on the market. Made with high-quality materials and cutting-edge design, this cover offers superior protection and efficiency for your differential system.

Continue reading to discover how the SPELAB differential cover works and why it's the best choice for your vehicle.

2. Product Principle

How It Works

A differential cover works by protecting the differential gears and ensuring proper lubrication. The cover seals the differential housing, keeping out dirt and debris while retaining the lubricating fluid. This fluid reduces friction and wear on the gears, ensuring smooth operation and longevity. The 8.8 Ford differential cover and Ford 9.75 differential cover are prime examples of high-quality covers that enhance vehicle performance through efficient protection and cooling.

Innovative Design by SPELAB

The SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover features several innovative designs. The external cooling fins increase the contact area with the surrounding air, significantly improving heat dissipation. Internal baffle channels align with the fluid flow direction during gear rotation, ensuring maximum flow rate and better lubrication. Unlike traditional iron covers, the use of aluminum alloy in the Dana 44 differential cover enhances cooling performance. The cover also includes an external sight glass with a float ball for easy oil level monitoring, even if the sight glass darkens over time. The black anti-rust wrinkle paint provides additional durability and protection against corrosion.

Explore the unique advantages of the SPELAB differential cover in the next section.

3. Product Advantages

Why Choose SPELAB Differential Cover?

Opting for the SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover offers numerous advantages. The aluminum alloy construction significantly enhances cooling performance, ensuring optimal temperatures under heavy loads. Directional fluid guides ensure comprehensive lubrication, reducing wear and extending differential lifespan. Products like the Ford 9.75 and Dana 44 differential covers showcase these improvements.

Practical Benefits

Installing the SPELAB differential cover extends differential lifespan and improves fuel economy. Enhanced cooling and lubrication lead to more efficient operation, reducing maintenance needs. Features like the external sight glass and anti-rust coating make it a reliable, long-lasting investment.

Discover the detailed features of the SPELAB differential cover in the next section to understand its superior quality and performance.

4. Product Features

Key Features Visualization

To provide a clear and engaging overview of the key features of the SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover, we have represented them in the pie chart below. This chart highlights the diverse and advanced attributes that set this differential cover apart from its competitors.

Key Features

1. Cooling Fins (534 sq. inches): Ensures optimal heat dissipation.
2. Internal Heat Fins (120 sq. inches): Enhances internal heat absorption.
3. Material (A380 Aluminum): Offers superior strength and cooling performance.
4. Fill Plug (Magnetic): Designed for easy filling at a 20° angle.
5. Hardware (304 Stainless Steel): Provides durability with hex flange mounting bolts.
6. Sight Glass (Viton O-ring): Allows easy monitoring of the oil level.
7. Drain Plug (Magnetic): Simplifies the oil change process.
8. Sensor Port (1/8 inch NPT): Facilitates temperature monitoring.
9. Seal (Viton O-ring): Ensures a mess-free, dry installation.
10. Machining (CNC Precision): Guarantees a precise fit.
11. Fluid Change (No Cover Removal): Enables easy fluid replacement without removing the cover.
12. Lubrication Pathways: Directs fluid efficiently to the pinion and ring gear bearings.
13. Air System (Detachment Points): Prevents damage with stamped air system detachment points.
14. Anti-Rust Coating: Protects against corrosion with a wrinkle paint finish.

Cooling Effect and Surface Area Comparison

Cooling Effect Comparison

The bar chart on the left compares the cooling effects of the SPELAB cover and a flat back cover under two different test conditions:

• Road Traction Test: SPELAB cover is 5 times more effective than a flat back cover.
• Continuous Test at 200 HP, 60 MPH: SPELAB cover shows a 118% improvement in cooling over a flat back cover.

Surface Area Comparison

The horizontal bar chart on the right illustrates the surface areas of the SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover:

• External Cooling Fins: 533.782 in²
• Internal Heat Fins: 119.882 in²
• Total External Heat Radiation Surface: 808.81 in²
• Total Internal Heat Absorption Surface: 215.78 in²

These visualizations highlight the superior cooling performance and extensive heat dissipation capabilities of the SPELAB differential cover.

Continue reading to learn the step-by-step installation process for the SPELAB differential cover.

5. Installation Guide

Tools and Preparation

Before you start, gather all necessary tools and supplies:

• Tools: Wrench set, torque wrench, oil drain pan, scraper, cleaning cloths.
• Materials: New differential cover, sealant, differential oil, cleaning agent.

Ensure the vehicle is on a stable surface and use a jack and stands for safety.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Step 1: Gather Tools and Supplies

Prepare all the tools and materials listed above. Ensure you have everything at hand before starting the installation.

Step 2: Drain Differential and Remove Old Bolts

Locate the differential drain plug and place the oil drain pan underneath. Carefully remove the drain plug and let the old oil drain out completely. Once drained, remove the old bolts securing the differential cover.

Step 3: Clean Housing

Use a cleaning agent and cloths to thoroughly clean the differential housing. Ensure there is no dirt, debris, or old oil residue.

Step 4: Scrape Old Gasket Material

With a scraper, carefully remove any old gasket material from the mating surface of the differential housing. Make sure the surface is smooth and clean to ensure a proper seal with the new cover.

Step 5: Install New Cover

Apply a thin layer of sealant to the new differential cover. Align the cover with the differential housing and start threading the new bolts. Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure. Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings.

Step 6: Fill With New Fluid

Open the fill plug on the new cover and fill the differential with the appropriate differential oil. Fill until the oil starts to seep out of the fill hole, ensuring the correct oil level. Reinstall the fill plug securely.

Additional Tips

• Check for Leaks: After installation, inspect the differential cover and surrounding areas for any signs of oil leaks.
• Test Drive: Take a short test drive to ensure the differential operates smoothly and without unusual noises.
• Regular Checks: Periodically check the oil level and the condition of the differential cover to ensure long-term reliability.

Learn about the compatibility of the SPELAB differential cover with various vehicle models in the next section.

6. Compatibility

Fitment Details

The SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover is compatible with a wide range of vehicles. Here are the specific models:

Ford Models

• 2017+ F250 F350(Dana M275 Axles ONLY)
• 1997+ Ford F-150
• 1998-1999 Ford F-250LD(light duty, NOT Super Duty)
• 1997-2004 Ford F-150 SVT Lightning
• 1997-2006 Ford
• 1999-2010 Ford E-Series vans
• 11-14 V6; 86-14 V8(Excluding 03-04 Cobra & 13-14 GT500)

 

Dodge Ram Models

• 2003-2007 Dodge Ram 5.9L Cummins Diesel
• 2003-2007 Dodge Ram Gas Engine
• 2007-2018 Dodge Ram 6.7L Cummins Diesel
• 2007-2018 Dodge Ram Gas Engine

 

GMC/Chevrolet Models

• 2001-2019 GMC/Chevrolet LB7 LLY LBZ LMM LML L5P 6.6L Duramax Diesel
• 2001-2019 GMC/Chevrolet Gas Engine

 

Lincoln Models

• 1997-2005 Lincoln Navigator

Compatibility Fitment Table

Make	Models	Years
Ford	F250 F350 (Dana M275 Axles ONLY)	2017+
	F-150	1997+
	F-250LD (light duty, NOT Super Duty)	1998-1999
	F-150 SVT Lightning	1997-2004
	Various Ford Models	1997-2006
	E-Series vans	1999-2010
	V6 and V8 (Excluding 03-04 Cobra & 13-14 GT500)	2011-2014; 1986-2014
Dodge Ram	5.9L Cummins Diesel	2003-2007
	Gas Engine	2003-2007; 2007-2018
	6.7L Cummins Diesel	2007-2018
GMC/Chevrolet	LB7 LLY LBZ LMM LML L5P 6.6L Duramax Diesel	2001-2019
	Gas Engine	2001-2019
Lincoln	Navigator	1997-2005

Proceed to the next section for user guides and maintenance tips to ensure your SPELAB differential cover performs at its best.

7.User Guide and Maintenance

User Guide

To get the most out of your SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover, follow these simple usage guidelines:

• Regular Checks: Periodically check the oil level using the external sight glass with float ball. This helps ensure that your differential remains properly lubricated.
• Monitor for Leaks: After installation and during regular use, keep an eye out for any signs of oil leaks around the differential cover. Promptly address any issues to avoid damage to your differential.
• Follow Manufacturer Recommendations: Always use the type and amount of differential oil recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to maintain optimal performance.

Maintenance Tips

Proper maintenance of your differential cover will extend its lifespan and ensure your vehicle performs at its best:

• Oil Changes: Regularly change the differential oil as per your vehicle's maintenance schedule. This helps maintain the lubrication quality and prevents buildup of contaminants.
• Inspect Bolts: Periodically inspect the bolts securing the differential cover to ensure they are tight and secure. Loose bolts can lead to leaks and reduced performance.
• Clean the Cover: Keep the differential cover clean from dirt and debris to maintain its cooling efficiency. Use a soft brush and mild detergent to clean the fins and surface without damaging the anti-rust coating.
• Check for Wear: During routine maintenance, inspect the differential cover for any signs of wear or damage. If the cover shows significant wear, consider replacing it to maintain optimal protection for your differential.

Now that you have all the information, ensure your vehicle's differential is well-protected by choosing the SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover. Order yours today and experience the difference!

Conclusion

Choosing the SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover means investing in superior protection and performance for your vehicle. With its innovative design, exceptional cooling capabilities, and robust construction, this differential cover is engineered to meet the demands of even the toughest driving conditions. Whether you own a Ford, Dodge Ram, or GMC/Chevrolet, the SPELAB differential cover offers compatibility with a wide range of models, ensuring that your vehicle benefits from enhanced durability and efficiency.

By following our detailed installation guide, you can easily replace your old differential cover and enjoy the numerous benefits that come with this high-quality upgrade. Regular maintenance and proper usage will further extend the lifespan of your differential system, providing you with peace of mind and improved vehicle performance.

Don't wait—experience the ultimate in differential protection and efficiency. Upgrade to the SPELAB POWER RAM-AIR differential cover today and take your vehicle's performance to the next level.

FAQ: Common Questions About Differential Covers

Q1: What is a differential cover? 

A1: A differential cover is a protective component that seals the differential housing, protecting the gears and lubricating fluid from debris and damage.

Q2: Why should I upgrade my differential cover? 

A2: Upgrading your differential cover can enhance cooling, improve lubrication, extend the lifespan of the differential, and provide better overall performance.

Q3: How do I know if a differential cover is compatible with my vehicle? 

A3: Check the product specifications for fitment details and ensure it matches your vehicle's make, model, and year. Compatibility lists are usually provided by the manufacturer.

Q4: What materials are differential covers made from? 

A4: Differential covers are typically made from aluminum or steel. Aluminum covers are known for better cooling and lighter weight, while steel covers are more durable.

Q5: How often should I check the differential oil level? 

A5: It's recommended to check the differential oil level during routine vehicle maintenance or every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Q6: Can I install a differential cover myself? 

A6: Yes, with basic mechanical skills and the right tools, you can install a differential cover yourself by following the step-by-step installation guide.

Q7: What is the purpose of cooling fins on a differential cover? 

A7: Cooling fins increase the surface area of the cover, helping to dissipate heat more effectively and maintain optimal operating temperatures for the differential.

Q8: How does the sight glass with float ball work? 

A8: The sight glass allows you to easily monitor the oil level inside the differential. The float ball remains visible even if the glass darkens, indicating the current oil level.

Q9: What should I do if I notice an oil leak from the differential cover? 

A9: If you notice an oil leak, inspect the cover and bolts for tightness and check the gasket for damage. Re-torque the bolts or replace the gasket if necessary.

Q10: How does a differential cover affect fuel economy? 

A10: A well-designed differential cover can improve fuel economy by reducing friction and maintaining optimal lubrication, leading to smoother and more efficient drivetrain operation.