OK, it seems a lot of people use only RTV. Some won't even think about not using a gasket.

I'm gonna give the parts stores a shot at a gasket, because last week during my swap I used only RTV, and it's leaking. Now I don't claim to be an RTV pro, but everyone always says not to glob it on.

Anyone care to humor me and give me a quick idea of how I should use the RTV? Do you put it on both the cover and the diff.? ...kinda like rubber cement in art class! I just can't see how it could possibly be leaking, yet it still is. Just wondering if I didn't let it sit before wreching or something obvious that I missed.

 

I haven't used a diff cover gasket since the early 80's. A thin bead of RTV around the inside edge and around all the holes. Too much and it will squish out. Normally just as much squishes in as it does out. You don't want that inside the diff. Don't overtorque the cover bolts since that can distort the cover flange around the bolt holes. If you're worried about the bolts coming out, use a little bit of blue locktite or some weatherstrip adhesive to secure the threads.

I use Permatex high temp red RTV for just about everything. It's actually orange in color.

 

i use black RTV and have not had a problem either. just make sure that both surfaces are clean with a solvent like brake cleaner before you put on the RTV on the diff. then make sure you snug all the cover bolt holes first in a star pattern then tighten to spec and it shouldn't leak, probably due to having old RTV or gasket material still on there from before. i've never bought a gasket for the rear end when you can make your own and a tube of RTV will last several times for a fraction of the cost of a gasket.

 

When I do it, I use my finger to smear it into a thin film on both sides. Wait 15 minutes for it to partially set up, put them together and snug the bolts. Wait an hour and tighten them up the rest of the way. Definitely don't overtighten or you'll distort the flange as previously mentioned.

 

You can get a gasket at the parts store. But as long as you let the RTV dry before you put in the lube, it should be fine.

 

I think using RTV is crazy, but that's me, I just massaged the cover a little bit so it was even, made sure the gasket surfaces were completely clean with a little brake cleaner, and used a standard cork type gasket tighted so it just crushes good and starts to push out. Never had a single leak.

 

I always use Permatex Right Stuff gasket maker. That is some unbeliveably good stuff.

 

I'm pretty sure the first time I didn't let the RTV dry before adding the lube. (actually I know I didn't )

Resealed it this past weekend, filled it Tuesday. No leaks as of yet.

 

yes it is its the best

 

I use a gasket ,that is what they are made for. GM put a gasket there so why not use one? They are only 5bucks.

 

I agree. Who started the "no gasket for the diff cover" thing. It seems to be the way everyone does it, so I was a follower, and joined the crowd. ...

For the record, it worked once I let the RTV dry, but why not just use a gasket? I hate RTV, and for the hastle and crap allover my hands, I'll use a gasket next time.