Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) differential sealant.

[JCyrbok]

Getting ready to change out my front and rear diff fluids. What is the easiest way to scrap the old sealant off of the cover and diff case with out damaging the sealing surface. ALso how long should I wait after re-installing the covers with the RTV sealant, before I refill them. Does the sealant have to cure. The parts guy said one of the techs told him " just goop it up and fill it. "



ANy help is as always appreciated.



J-

 

[parcher]

I use right angle die grinder with a green 3-M "bristle disc" to get the sealer off. If you're using my favorite stuff (the red/orange Mopar sealer) then just goop it up (too much of a good thing IS TOO MUCH) and fill it.

 

[parcher]

You could also scrape as much off with a razor and then finis with some scotch brite, clean with some brake cleaner and have at it.

 

[KEarnest]

Once the mating surfaces have been cleaned and the parts are ready for re-installation, I like to use either Permatex Gasket Maker "The Right Stuff" which is like black cheese whiz in a can (I get this at NAPA)



OR



Cummins Silver Three Bond RTV Silicone Adhesive/Sealant part# 3823494 which is a 3oz. tube for around $10

 

[JCyrbok]

How much

About an 1/8 in bead around the cover right?



J-

 

[fj40charles]

1/8" bead is all you need. I put the bead on, tighten down, wait about 20 minutes and fill it up with gear oil.



I personally like the Permatex Ultra Black tube. They have them at all auto parts. If you really want a good sealant, to to GM and buy their grey sealant. Don't have a part number, but that stuff seals VERY well. Much better than any Permatex product.



Charles

 

[BigBadDodge]

I did mine Friday Mag-Teck on rear not an issue. On the front I scraped as much as possible with a flat blade putty knife and and got the rest with the scotch brite as stated above I used the permatex ultra copper high temp gasket maker got at the local Napa store 1/8' bead is correct make sure you go around the bolt holes. and don't over tighten forcing out all the rtv. Says that it is set at 1 hour with total cure at 24 hours. I waited the hour filled and drove home from work no problems.



BBD

 

[JCyrbok]

Scotch Brite?

Is Scotch Brite the green 3M "sanding" pads. If not, what is it. i've heard of if several times but never used or seen it.



Thanks

J-

 

[parcher]

Yes, it's the 3M "sanding" pad. Don't worry about messing up the mating surfaces, roughing them up gives a little "tooth" for the sealer to grab onto. Most auto parts stores and all body shop supply houses will have them.

 

[JCyrbok]

Do you guys clean out the differential of any "gunk" and residue fluid or just empty and refill? If you clean it how and with what. I was just going to wipe the inside of the case and cover down with a rag. ANy opinions



THanks

J-