Hi all,

I was wondering if people had any recommendations for one of those upgraded rear differential covers that have the drain and fill holes along with the preload bolts. I do use my Blazer for hauling a trailer that weighs 2,200 lbs so I thought some extra strength for the bearings could be helpful.



https://www.texas-speed.com/p-203-ta...5-10-bolt.aspx

Thanks

 

Really don't think this cover will help your rear end to any extent during normal road use while towing (V-6 doesn't have enough power to make use of the additional strengthening), but they definitely look cool and it gives you a way to drain the rear. Also, you gain a second fill plug.

I have the 8.5" LPW Ultimate 10 cover on my S10 racer. Figured it couldn't hurt after repairing my rear end, but admittedly this cover would not have originally prevented my center section from getting torn up as it did the first time I used the trans brake. Solution for mine was to replace my aftermarket Eaton Posi center section with a full spool and c-clip eliminators. With your 1999 7.5, the Gov-lock center section spider gears and the axles are the weakest links.

 

THIS is why I love this forum: Useful information by those in the know!

Having a drain plug and an extra fill hole would be nice but for a savings of $150, I might be able to live without them. Besides, the looks don't really bother me. Being a west coast vehicle, the parts are not rusted away so that is not an issue either.

Thanks!

 

I used RTV to glue a magnet to the bottom of the cover. I considered a drain plug as well but I don't want to drain it without checking the magnet.

 

I did change out the diff oil several years ago. I thought I remembered a magnet being in there but I'll be sure to check that there is one the next time I change the oil.

 

It doesn't take much to drill a hole or two in the cover and weld on threaded bungs for plugs. If all you need are fill and drain plugs, I would just do that.

 

It does take a welder!! Something I have never owned.

 

This is true. But it would be a super easy job for a welding shop, or even a muffler shop. If you prepped it for them, they could probably do it in less than 10 minutes.

​​​​​​

 

I do have a friend that does her own welding. Good type of friend to have!

 

In my circle, I AM that friend, lol.