School me on Paper gaskets

southpw · Post by **southpw** » Thu Nov 05, 2015 5:59 pm

So I just rebuilt both my front and rear axles with all new bearings and seals and then watched a few videos on the net afterwards. So I see some people soak paper gaskets in oil, some smear grease all over them, some install them dry. NNow I'm questioning if I should have done option 1 or 2 instead of installing all the gaskets dry.
Any input is appreciated.
Brad

Bretto · Post by **Bretto** » Thu Nov 05, 2015 8:53 pm

I vote for the other option of using RTV. Clean all mating surfaces, smear a nice thin smooth amount of RTV on both the case and cover surfaces. Place the gasket on the diff case then put on the cover. Screw down all bolts snug hand tight. Let it sit 24hrs and then go back and finish tighning the bolts. Fill with gear oil and go. 24hrs will let the RTV set up and not get squished out.
Brett

Post by **wesk** » Thu Nov 05, 2015 9:41 pm

I have been a mechanic since the late 50's. I am not an RTV fan. It is not the world's best sealing solution. It has a small place in the world of sealing but not at all a good overall sealing agent.

Using the correct gaskets specified by the product manufacturer and following the manufacturer's directions when installing them is the best sealing solution in 99% of all cases. If the sealing surfaces are undamaged, clean and dry; and the correct seal is being installed then only add sealing agents when they are called for in the manufacturer's instructions. Otherwise install the seal or gasket dry.

When sealing surfaces are damaged then correct the damage. Do not employ RTV as a cure all for an improper repair.