Changing Rear-End Fluid

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Oct 21, 2005 | 09:39 PM

NDrum2005

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Changing Rear-End Fluid

Tomorrow, I'm going to change the fluid in the rear end of two F-350's (2000 and 2002) with open 3.73's at work. What is the capacity of the differentials? Also, Ive changed the fluid on some other older chevys, and noticed that they didnt have a gasket on the diff. cover, just the silicone. Do I really need a gasket on the Fords, or will the silicone suffice?

Thanks.

Oct 21, 2005 | 09:57 PM

99f350sd

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From: Lyndonville, Vermont

Use the "right stuff " gasket maker in a cheese wiz can its great no gasket needed. Don't use silicone...

Oct 21, 2005 | 10:36 PM

krewat

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From: Long Island USA

Silicone will be fine... let it "skin" before assembly.

Oct 21, 2005 | 11:50 PM

getnbz

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From: maryland

go with right stuff hasnt leaked yet in 3 yrs

Oct 22, 2005 | 01:00 AM

Kenworth

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There is nothing wrong with silicone gasket maker I used Permatex Black on the Dana 80 in my 95 F-450. There was silicone gasket maker used by the previous owner.

You have to follow the directions on the tube some gasket makers say let skin some are assemble parts after applying gasket maker.

You just have to make sure the surfaces are clean and free of old silicone and use some brake clean to clean the surfaces so the silicone will stick.

I don't think I have ever used a rigid gasket on a diff cover.

Oct 22, 2005 | 01:50 AM

NDrum2005

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Thanks for the replies. I think the silicone that I bought is the Permatex Black, or something similar. Its rated to 650°, so it ought to be fine. I'm changing two trucks, and I bought 2.5 gallons of gear lube, just to be sure I had enough, and wouldnt have to make another trip to the store.

Thanks again

P.S. By changing the fluid myself, and not taking the trucks to the dealer, I'm saving the company $100 per truck.