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Well I tried to change my rear diff fluid today but can't get the cover off...I've taken all the bolts out and it wont come loose...What am I doing wrong????
Nothing is wrong, Just have your drain pan ready and gently pry with a big flat screw driver around the edges. start at the bottom left or right, and pop it open. You will need to scrape and clean the gasket surface and cover before you apply new RTV. I usually use the Blue silicone stuff from autozone. Never had a leak using it.
RTV sealent is used as the gasket so it will take getting in under the cover and working your way around it to break the seal. I used a putty knife and worked my way around the cover until I could pry it off.
Alright well I'll head to the shop and give it another try. I have already scraped the silicone off around the edges, so I guess I just need to use a little mire strength and pry it off.
BTW, I bought the black silicone RTV, not the blue stuff you speak of. Is the black stuff okay?
DO NOT over tighten the bolts when you put it back on. The language that will follow is upsetting to the neighbors! Lightly tight is all. Don't know what the torque is for them but I'd bet 30~~ft/lbs?
WS manual says 34 lb-ft for cover bolts. I'm not sure if 3L is LS or not. If it is you'll need to add friction modifier if your replacement fluid doesn't contain it. Ford calls for 8oz of fluid but I used only 4oz. If I was you I would start of with non and see if it chatters while make a turn. If it does add 2oz of friction modifier. Keep adding 2oz until it no longer chatters.
Edit:
Might be a good time to go with full synthetic if it's not too late. Products like Royal Purple are pre-loaded with modifier. It is more expensive, but I do believe it's worth it.
I personally am a believer in the full synthetic products. I've switched my 6.8 engine and 4R100 transmission over to Royal Purple. I have noticed a difference in engine performance and (maybe) a slight sturdier feel in the transmission shifts.
I haven't switched the difs over yet, but I do plan to when I get the gears and lockers installed sometime this year.
Rick...
Last edited by _Rick_; Feb 12, 2010 at 05:38 PM.
Reason: added more info
Spend the money and get Permatex "Right Stuff" silicone to seal the diff back up. (can or caulk tube) Some silicones and other sealant can seep oil, the right stuff won't.