Rear Axle Question

[01z71]

Alright, I decided to redo-my axle fluid change.  This time I'll take off the rear cover to clean the magnet.  Just a couple of questions for those who have done this.  

 

1.) Can anyone recommend a good gasket sealent (Brand / Type, etc...)  2.) Do the bolts need to be torqued to any special amount.  3.) How do I keep the extra sealent from oozing inside the axle when cover is put back on? 4.) Any unexpected problems I should know about.

 

Thanks, I already picked up the gasket and am ready for the good weekend project.

[RyanbabZ71]

check this out

 

http://home.att.net/~m.prendergast-allieds...erado_axle.html

 

gives the torque values of the bolts

 

gasket sealer?  Your buying a gasket correct?

[01z71]

Ryan - got the gasket from the Chevy Dealer yesterday.  Wasn't sure what kind of sealent to use or if it makes a difference.

[RyanbabZ71]

from what i have heard some people have had leaks because the fluid eats the sealer.  

 

I used some stuff my dad gave me (blue stuff).  I didnt use alot and after 6K miles i still have no leaks (knock on wood)

[01z71]

Ryan -- Thanks for the link.  I checked it out.  From what I read do you have to put the truck on jack stands to take the cover off or is that just if you want it up higher?

 

Thanks Again.

[chane]

Ryan -- Thanks for the link.  I checked it out.  From what I read do you have to put the truck on jack stands to take the cover off or is that just if you want it up higher?

 

Thanks Again.

You don't have to put it on jack stands..  When I changed my 2000's, I just used the new gasket and no sealant.  Never leaked.  I also painted the cover/bolts w/some high temp paint to match the truck.

 

From what I have heard, the magnet in these does the job and you don't have to pull the cover off.  Just drain and fill w/Mobil 1 90w..  I don't think I'm going to pull the cover off on the new HD.

[01z71]

Thanks.

 

I wanted to make sure I asked all possible problem's I could run in too.  I don't wanna have my truck taken apart and feeling stupid if I missed something.

 

Been there -- done that in the past.  Just wanted to make sure.  Thanks for the replies.

[HillHound]

1.) Can anyone recommend a good gasket sealent (Brand / Type, etc...)  

Just an FYI-I removed the differential cover on my 1500 about a thoudand miles ago for a fluid change and I didn't use a gasket sealant.  So far no leaks.  Just use a torque wrench to get the bolts tightened down correctly and that goes a long way in ensuring a proper seal.

[Greek]

I changed the rear axle fluid in my wife's 2000 Z71, 5.3, 3.73 Silverado at about 7,500 miles.

It has about 14,000 miles on it now with no problem. I've changed the rear axle fluid on my Dodge B250 van twice and it was very similar. The Silverado however has a drain plug. There is no need to jack it up. Plenty of room. I purchased a gasket from the Chevy dealer and decided to also use some blue RTV (high temperature). According to the manual all you need is the gasket, but I decided to be safe. I used Mobil 1 synthetic (rear axle fluid) and have not had any problems. The Chevy fluid was too expensive. I did remove the cover and cleaned the magnet and the inside of the cover. I put the RTV around the inside of the bolt holes. I torqued the bolts to spec according to the manual. There is a clip on the top bolt that holds the brake line, make sure to put it back on when you put the cover on. Next change I will not remove the cover. I will just drain the fluid and replace. At about 15,000 miles I plan to replace the front axle fluid. I will just use regular axle fluid because I have some sitting in the garage. Follow the weight recommendations for the axle fluid. You should have no problem.