I used OEM black high temp. silicone when I put the differential cover back on. I hand tightened the bolts just snug until the silicone squeezed out around the edges. That was about an hour and a half ago. How long do I need to let it cure before I torque the bolts down for good? I assume the differential cover bolts are not torqued very tight because they came off pretty easy when removing them.

 

All silicone sealers need time to cure, (harden enough to hold it's shape a bit) before assembling). And you should tighten the bolts up snug. I think the spec is around 12-15ft lbs.

Bob

 

It said on the tube to let it set-up for 10 minutes then put together whatever it's on, which I did. Just wondering how long I should wait before I torque down the bolts?

 

If the instructions say 10 minutes until final assembly, then 10 minutes should do it.

 

i have never wait for teh sealant to dry, i put it on the cover, install the cover and tighten down right away. then go right to filling. i have never had one leak

 

x2 with Joe ^^, Never had one leak too.

 

^^^^^^^^
Word! been doing it for 10 years now with very few problems!

-cutts-

 

Good grief I seem to always do the wrong thing first. I was just doing like I did when I changed the the thermostat neck housing. I tightened the bolts until I saw silicone come out the edges and then waited overnight to tightened all the way.

 

I would not say you are doing the wrong thing. I usually try to give it some time so when I tighten the bolts I dont squeeze out all the goo. Finger tight first then Ill let it sit for a Little while before i tighten them..

 

Same here. It seems it's like all else, we all have a preference when we do the wrenching. If it doesn't leak, it's a done deal.


Bob

 

yup, what they said

 

thats it in a nut shell