CCF5000

I recently changed my differential fluid because it was leaking so i figured i'd do it anyways.
Well i used rtv and let it cure for about half an hour and put the cover back on and tightened the bolts down. Am i supposed to wait a while before i fill it back up with gear oil? I drove it about 3 miles and noticed it wasn't leaking then i drove it 20 miles got to where i was going and noticed it was dripping very slowly. I drove it home easily hopefully i didn't break anything. I'll know i guess when i pull it apart. Should i use a gasket or rtv and is there a torque spec for the cover?

AdderMk2

you shouldnt have let the RTV cure that long... when I rtv stuff, I just slap it together, but I let it dry for 24 hours

notch5oh

i just let it sit for 15 minutes, put it together filled it and drove it about a half hour later, hasnt leaked yet

ZachW04Stang

At work I use and have to use rtv on a lot of rear ends because gaskets aren't available. I just put the rtv on the cover, bolt it down, fit it up and back it out. Only had 1 leak out of about maybe 25cars/trucks I've done it too.

CCF5000

ah i guess thats where im getting it wrong. I always thought you're supposed to let the rtv skin over then install the cover.
Should i use a torque wrench on the bolts? Maybe like 16 ft lbs i heard somewhere if u overtighten them it will cause it to leak easier.

ZachW04Stang

I hit the bolts down with a 3/8 impact. Just get the them all snugged down and make sure they are tight.

notch5oh

you are supposed too but 30 mins might be too much.Are you runnin stock or aluminum cover that might have somthin to do with it?

AdderMk2

correct... IF your using a cork gasket!