Hello everyone. Yesterday I was replacing axle bearings and seals in a 2003 Dakota. I found a broken piece of metal on the bottom of the case. It was the only piece found. Can anyone identify it? Is it anything to worry about?

Thanks,
Craig

I think it's part of a limited slip spring.

Yep.
Holds clutch disc in place.

Thanks. Is the truck safe to drive as is?

probably be ok.

But plan to fix it at some point ( discs rattle in the case if its not there )

Thats one of the retainers for the clutch discs in the lsd unit. You need to check the diff housing by the carrier bearing cap as if thats busted off, the housing has been gouged out too and you may need a new diff housing or assembly. At the minimum, you need another carrier assembly since that retainer is n/a separately.

Thanks, I'll be sure to check diff housing. Just need to wait for warmer weather.

Here's a pic from the FSM for ya...

here is the long term results

required new housing and gears and power loc...01 ram 1500