So over the last week I've seen a small plate sized oil stain under the rear diff after cooldown. I finally got to look at it this weekend and figured I'd tighten the bolts to spec and that would take care of it.

Well, it appears that the rear diff cover has actually rusted badly and when I lightly push on the cover near the bottom by the bottom bolt a bit of fluid seeps out.

Any recommendations on an aftermarket cover, preferably with a drain plug for easier drain/fill in future? The rear sway bar is so close to the diffy cover that there is not much room for a different sized cover.

Also, with the rear sway bar right there does it need to be removed to do the cover switch out and how much of a pain is it.

Thanks!

 

As you found out the stock covers are prone to rust.

I replaced the cover on my 2000 with a Dorman # 697-701 a couple of years ago. There is no drain plug on the cover but I used synthetic gear oil so it will be awhile until it needs to be changed. It comes unpainted, so you'll need to give it a coat of paint.

The cover can be removed & replaced with the sway bar in place. I only removed my spare tire to give some extra working room.