Dorman 697-356 Differential Ring and Pinion - Rear

Differential Ring and Pinion for OE Replacement

Dorman 697-356 is a standard replacement differential ring and pinion for vehicles equipped with an 8.25-inch rear axle and a 3.55 gear ratio. It directly replaces the original equipment on select Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Mitsubishi applications, including Jeep Liberty, Dodge Dakota, and Dodge Durango rear differential setups.

• Gear ratio: 3.55
• Standard replacement grade for direct OE-style service
• Package contents: ring gear and pinion gear
• Rear axle application with 8.25 in. ring gear notes on listed vehicles
• Compatible with select Jeep Liberty, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Nitro, and Dodge Durango rear differential applications

Application Details and Cross Reference

This Dorman 697-356 ring and pinion is built for rear differential service on a wide range of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Mitsubishi platforms. It is listed for 1966-2012 model years across 193 vehicle applications, with fitment notes calling out the 8.25-inch ring gear and 3.55 axle ratio. This part cross-references YG C8.25-355 and ZG C8.25-355 for the same application.

What This Part Helps Address

• Restores proper final drive ratio after gear wear or damage
• Addresses whining, gear noise, or rough differential operation
• Replaces worn ring and pinion gears in the rear axle
• Supports repair of driveline issues tied to damaged gear teeth
• Helps return Jeep Liberty, Dodge Dakota, and Dodge Durango rear differential performance to factory-style gearing

Installation Notes and Tips

Professional differential setup is recommended. Ring and pinion installation requires precise backlash, pinion depth, and bearing preload adjustment, along with proper inspection of the carrier and related wear components. Installation kit is not included, so verify all required setup parts before beginning service. Confirm the axle housing, 8.25-inch ring gear specification, and 3.55 ratio before ordering.

Quality Assurance

Dorman supplies this differential ring and pinion as a direct OE replacement for specific vehicle years, makes, and models. The part number 697-356 is intended for standard replacement service in rear axle applications where the original gear set matches the listed fitment.