Hello guys, Just sand blasted my truck and seems the rear differential gasket broke down. Nice puddle of fluid... Anyway working this weekend to replace the gasket but wanted to see if you guys can recommend a gear oil the would be best for my 53 chevy 3100? Any recommendations? 75w-90? Also anyone know when installing the cover how many foot pounds I should torque down the bolts? Or at least an idea how snug I should get the bolts? James
rear cover Use your typical 90 weight gear oil available anywhere. Watch out when you put the cover back on though. Put it back on the correct way so the indents in the cover match up to the ring gear. Use a new gasket and I always use "The Right Stuff" gasket sealer for that cover. Andy
Thanks... Wondering if it is really necessary to get a new gasket if using "the right stuff " gasket maker? James
Re - Sealing James ; If you want to use ' The Right Stuff ' with an old gasket , you'll have to wash it clean of grease and oil with starting fluid then allow to dry before adding The Right Stuff .
old gasket I had a problematic rear axle oil seal and had to change it several times. i used the old gasket (probably OEM) over several times. Cleaned it really good as per Nate and used "The Right Stuff". Finally the old gasket gave up when I took the cover off (yet again) and I had to use a new, much thinner gasket, but I always used sealer. Andy
I see.. I suspect my original gasket is dead. So it seems that you are suggesting is to go ahead an get one of the available gaskets, but also get "THE RIGHT STUFF". What was your procedure.. After cleaning both cover and differential really good, did you apply the "THE RIGHT STUFF" on THE Differential side first, then Gasket, then cover? Thanks guys.. -James