Rear differential gasket question

[Biggredd2069]

On my 68 Newport I want to change the rear diff gasket. I have a fsm on disk but had to order an external cd reader to view it. In the meantime is it just as simple as taking off the ten bolts or so and lowering the driveshaft and that whole front unit? I just want to swap the gasket and fluid only.

 

[57fury440]

To remove the center section and replace the gasket you have to take the axels out. You will have to take off the rear drums and remove the bolts holding the axels in. You don't have to take them all the way out but enough to clear the center section. If it was me, I would take them out all the way and replace those gaskets too.

 

[Biggredd2069]

Sounds like a big job

 

[413]

Yes it’s a big stinky job. after you do it several times it can go pretty fast with air tools.

I wouldn‘t change the axle seals if they are not leaking. It is very easy to go back in there later If they do leak. I would clean the bearings and repack them in grease. They don’t ride in oil. If they are covered in oil the axle seals are bad.

 

[Triple Pickle]

I always install a drain plug by drilling and tapping for 3/8”NPT and installing a flush pipe plug in the bottom of the housing. I used to do a lot of pumpkin swapping, and this made the job less messy.