Hey everyone. Looking to change the fluid in the rear axle on the Jimmy. It has been a while (about 3 years) but haven't put many miles on it in that time. I have the black Dorman cover and thin rubber gasket ready along with synthetic blend 80W90 but have some questions:

1. On my Trailblazer I have the solid plastic/rubber gasket that just goes on without a fight or RTV sealant or leaks. Is the same true for this setup? No RTV needed?

2. I had the brake lines replaced recently and they curved them over the cover luckily but I may have to bend the bracket away. Any tips on this? With the Trailblazer it isn't a problem since the lines aren't routed that way.

3. What is the best way to clean the gasket surface if the last shop used RTV? Wire brush?

Thanks

Update: I cannot find the soft rubber gasket for this, I think I was thinking of something else..... I have what appears to be a paper Felpro gasket that came with it instead. Will that work and does it need RTV? Thanks.

 

1. just use straight rtv silicone for the gasket. i never use one, though i do see one here and there on trucks but most even come from he factory with just silicone.

2.if the brake lines are in good shape you can bend them a little bit just dont kink them.

3. yeah wire brush. use a razor blade to knock off the big chunks, a wire wheel on a drill or grinder set up will save some times

 

We own 3 blazers and from experience I just loosen the bolts crack the cover open "carefully" let it drip for an hour, and re torque to tighten. I've never replaced the gaskets.