RTV Sealant/Gasket question

[757guy]

I removed my rear differential cover for a fluid change today, and after I cleaned the cover and re-applied red RTV sealant, the directions said to finger tighten the bolts, wait one hour, then turn 1/4 to 1/2 to fully seat the cover. The directions then said that the sealant would fully cure in 24 hours.

My question is: Do I need to wait 24 hours before refilling the differential with my Mobil 1 gear lube?

Thanks in advance for your reply.

 

[beast3300]

I always apply RTV to the cover, wait 15 mins. Bolt it together normally then wait 15 mins and fill.

Waiting the initial 15 mins is just so the RTV skins over (this time may vary depending on your ambient temp). If you purchase "the right stuff" it is EDPM and is ready to go in 1 min. Either way, you will be good to go. No need to wait 24 hrs before filling.

 

[757guy]

Thanks for the prompt reply. My gut feeling was that I didn't have to wait 24 hours, but I wanted another opinion.

The hard part is filling the differential - not a lot of room but I made an adapted funnel with a clear 1/2" hose which works well.

 

[Bluestream]

Originally Posted By: 757guy
Thanks for the prompt reply. My gut feeling was that I didn't have to wait 24 hours, but I wanted another opinion.

The hard part is filling the differential - not a lot of room but I made an adapted funnel with a clear 1/2" hose which works well.



Try using a marine push-pump oil pump taht is used for filling marine gearcases. Works very well and cost $6

 

[beast3300]

Originally Posted By: 757guy
Thanks for the prompt reply. My gut feeling was that I didn't have to wait 24 hours, but I wanted another opinion.

The hard part is filling the differential - not a lot of room but I made an adapted funnel with a clear 1/2" hose which works well.



Your welcome. Filling isn't fun, if you can get a pump of some kind, that would be the best.

 

[mechtech2]

The longer you wait, the better.
15 minutes is way too short. Luck is your only ally then.
Maybe with GM 'Right Stuff' sealant, but not with any RTV I know of.
Warm weather helps a lot, but overnight is best.

 

[severach]

I use the Hopkins Transmission Gear Oil Spout that screws on top of a quart oil bottle. Fill the oil bottle with gear lube and squirt it in from the wheel well. I like it better than the more expensive push pump that fits on the gallon bottle.