Rear Differential Gasket or RTV??

[CharlesHoward]

Any recommendations as to which is easier or better for an 05 3500 DRW SWD 11. 5 axle: The traditional Gasket from Mopar/Genos or RTV caulking?



Caulking must be cheaper at $5/tube versus over $20 for a Gasket (I assume one tube (toothpaste size) of RTV is enough).



I'm getting ready to change the Diff Fluid. Online examples mostly use only RTV.

Haynes Manual says RTV AND Gasket.



Cost is not a biggie, albeit I want to do it myself versus paying at least $200 quoted by the dealer!



Also, there are so many RTV products out there. Is Permatex Oil Resistant Black 500 degree good enough/appropriate?



Your suggestions/advice are greatly appreciated.

 

[BigPapa]

I would use nothing but Permatex Ultra Gray. Just my . 02



Scott

 

[Tinman]

I've done it both ways. Neither is very hard, but I perfer the gasket if you can get it. I just got one for my Dana 70 for $5 at NAPA. I didn't use any RTV this time. NAPA only had one gasket so I used only RTV on the front. Gasket is a little easier. Worth $5 to me. Not $20.

 

[LRundberget]

The diff gasket is reusable. No need for any sealants like RTV etc.

Unbolt the cover.
Drain fluid.
Clean up surfaces with a rag.
Clean inside bottom of diff.
Reinstall cover and torque to specs.
Fill with fluid.
Your done.

 

[LSteiner]

Reuse the gasket

I've reused mine for 4 times and no problems yet.
larry

 

[DPKetchum]

2nd (01)and 3rd generation diffs compleatly differant. 3rd gens have a rubber/steel gasket that is reuseable. No RTV.

 

[BigPapa]

2nd (01)and 3rd generation diffs compleatly differant.

SORRY!



Didn't even notice I had wandered out of my specified area... ... ...



Scott

 

[Ragain]

Since your here... Permatex Right Stuff® is an elastomeric rubber in a pressurized can with a finger-tip control applicator. (Black & white can) Works excellent on diff covers and lube/oil will not soften the sealer. Sets up firmer than a silicone sealer. We use this product a lot in the heavy trucks and haven't had any leaks.

 

[Flinty]

Second the Right Stuff advice. I have had that gasket maker seal in the most demanding of situations, in fact, it's on my rear diff cover right now.

 

[CharlesHoward]

Thanks for the advice so far!
Regarding RTV, is there a minimum temperature (over 600 degrees for example), that the DIFF is subject to?

 

[Cattletrkr]

I'll second (3rd 4th whatever) not needing anything but the factory gasket. You will not seal it up better using anything else.

 

[TRAMPLINEMAN]

Thanks for the advice so far!

Regarding RTV, is there a minimum temperature (over 600 degrees for example), that the DIFF is subject to?

If your diffs are anywhere near 600 degrees you've got major problems. Unless you're pulling heavy loads thru the mountains, you're diff should hardly ever see 200 degrees.