Changing diff. fluid

[Dtowncats]

What is the proper way of putting it back together. RTV gasket around the edge and bolt holes, Loc-tite on the bolts, any specific number to torque the bolts to? Should I wait until the gasket dries to put the fluid in or will it be okay to put it in right away?

 

[bimmertech]

I Don't Ever Use A Gasket On My Diff Cover, Just A Bead Of Rtv. I Don't Use Loctite Either, As Far As Torque I Usually Go To One Grrr With A 3/8 Ratchet. I Put The Fluid In Right Away And Drive It Befor The Rtv Dries. Good Idea To Also Remove The Axle Vent And Give It A Good Clean Or Replace.

 

[hllon4whls]

Torquing the cover is not too big of a deal IMO.

Just make it fairly tight. You dont have to put all of your strength into it. Loctite might help keep the bolts in there, but I dont run it either.

Bead of silly cone is what most people run for a gasket.

 

[Dtowncats]

Ok, thanks guys. Just thought I would make sure.

 

[HISSIN50]

your repair manual should have a spec for the cover's bolts.
I use a gasket and RTV, but no threadlock on the bolts (on the 12MM 12 point bolts which attach the DS to the pumpkin, yes. But not on the cover bolts).

Good luck.

 

[89MustangGX]

I've also never used LocTite, just snug the bolts up. It's important not to overtighten them as the cover can warp (like steel valve covers) and then you can have sealing problems.

 

[Shakerhood]

Its 25 Ft Lbs of Torque and you do it in a criss cross as you would mounting a wheel on your car. I am in the minority, I use a FMS Gasket.

 

[hotrodnut]

Its 25 Ft Lbs of Torque and you do it in a criss cross as you would mounting a wheel on your car. I am in the minority, I use a FMS Gasket.

Good info on the torque process. I like a gasket too because there is no time required for your car to be driven. That said, If you do use silicone let it dry/cure before heading out.