3rd Member reinstall help

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Feb 2, 2003 | 07:29 PM

dsc

Thread Starter

Senior User

Joined: Mar 2001

Posts: 296

Likes: 0

From: Maryland

3rd Member reinstall help

I removed my old 9 inch 2 47 3rd member. I am getting ready to install a 3 55. I was told that I could leave out the gasket use RTV instead. Also when I was removing the rear, there were copper washers on the mounting studs. Are the copper washers needed? I could only find new brass one in the store. The copper washers can't be reused. Thanks Art

Feb 2, 2003 | 07:38 PM

alpo23

Senior User

Joined: Dec 2000

Posts: 385

Likes: 0

3rd Member reinstall help

the proper way to install the pumpkin is to use the stock gasket and use NO sealer. MAke sure the mating surfaces are not nicked or pitted.

The copper washers are gotten at your local Ford Dealership. Don't let them blow you off by saying they are not availible. They are.

Eric

Feb 3, 2003 | 11:25 AM

EPNCSU2006

Lead Driver

Joined: Nov 2002

Posts: 9,555

Likes: 40

From: Concord, NC

3rd Member reinstall help

Either using a gasket with gasket sealer, or using no gasket and silicone will both work fine. I help out with a friend's race car, and we use construction silicone to seal up the ford 9 inch carrier in the rear end, and it doesn't leak. I use the gasket and gasket sealer on the cover of my 8.8 in my truck and have no leaks either. Whichever method you prefer, they are both equally as good (that's my opinion, at least).

Feb 3, 2003 | 02:15 PM

KJKozak2

Posting Guru

Joined: Feb 2002

Posts: 2,404

Likes: 3

From: Cleveland, WI USA

3rd Member reinstall help

I've had my 78 9" off several times, and I know what you mean about those dang washers. I actualy pounded mine flat again and reused them (for what it's worth).

Anyone know why they use the soft copper washers? I don't but would like to.

As for the gasket, I used one used RTV with it. The second time I had to take it apart, I wrecked the gasket and just used RTV. Been leak free since then.

Good luck.

Kevin K.

Feb 6, 2003 | 10:44 AM

rebocardo

Post Fiend

Joined: Jun 2002

Posts: 13,873

Likes: 3

From: Atlanta GA

3rd Member reinstall help

On my 9" or 8.8 I make sure both mating surfaces are clean, lightly buff with very fine sand paper if needed, lightly smear gray or black RTV on both surfaces, install gasket, torque to spec., wipe excess away.

Put bottles of gear lube on driver's seat, let RTV set up for a few hours, install lube. Leak free.

Feb 6, 2003 | 07:28 PM

72mach_1

Senior User

Joined: Jan 2003

Posts: 267

Likes: 0

From: Greenup KY

3rd Member reinstall help

Yes you can just blue glue it and not have a leak..........but

a gasket not only seals...but also spaces the carrier and axles to line up..........Oh sure It will work with out it.......but It puts it in a strain......even if its only a few thousands.........thats still a strain

Myself I always use a new gasket for that reason..........besides whats a few bucks compared to what you invest in your rear end

just put a light coat of blue glue on it .........an it'll be fine

Feb 7, 2003 | 12:47 AM

Ratsmoker

Post Fiend

Joined: Feb 2001

Posts: 6,624

Likes: 8

From: Missouri

3rd Member reinstall help

I just used the gasket and have no leaks. The seal is for proper axle alignment. I would leave the glue on the shelf for this one. I have had no problems.