Differential cover question

[mag]

What is the proper amount of RTV I should apply to the differential contacting surfaces?The other question do I apply it to the cover and differential or just the cover I am assuming the groove in the cover has something to do with the application of the RTV .

 

[driller]

I use a good 1/8"-3/16" bead all around on the cover, circling the bolt holes. Then smear it with a finger covering the entire mating surface. Once in place on the differential, snug all the bolts evenly alternating from side to side before torquing to spec. I always double check the torque. Once done, clean off any excess on the outside.

 

[beerdog]

I remember learning to let the sealant "set" before final torquing.

 

[soclose]

Don't know what they use at dealership but when I had fluid changed in rear end, I asked about sealant. What they use doesn't require any 'set up' time . Just applied it and torqued it back.

 

[BlackIceLSC]

Motorcraft has their own sealant, sold at the parts counter....works perfect as well. I use Right Stuff by permatex.

by the time you walk from the bench to the car, the "set up" is complete.