Rear End Cover

[74 Newbie]

I have just finished removing my spring, crossmember and Rear End Cover, seeing that both ears on the cover were broken, I ordered a new one along with a new spring and associated hardware from Vette Brakes. I did it without removing the Half Shafts, Struts, Exhaust or lowering the the Diff in any way.

My question is: am I going to be able to get the new cover (attached to the crossmember) back into place without continually knocking the gasket out of position. There doesn't seem to be enough room to position the assembly. When I removed the crossmember and 8 bolts on the diff it just fell right out (yes I did loosen the bottom diff bolts and drained the lube first). I'm sure somone has already done this and will be able to tell me if it is possible or that I will have to drop the diff etc. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

[Ron Anderson]

Re: Rear End Cover

I just completed the same procedure last weekend.To hold the gasket in place I used a small amount of silicone applied to the cover gasket surface only. Then I stuck a punch through a hole near the top left side,to act as a pilot guide,then with the first bolt near the top right side,the cover nearly fell into place!This procedure worked very well for me. I`m not sure if it was necessary, but I put pipe thread sealer on the bolt threads of the four bolts (two on each side) that could possibly leak oil.Four of the eight bolt holes in the differential case are drilled directly through into the oil reservoir. I also put anti-seize compound on the spring mounting bolts,for the next time I have to take it apart. One other tip- I made a funnel extension out of 1/2" thinwall conduit.Use a piece about four foot long, with a couple of bends, up and over the R/R tire, you can stand next to the car and pour in the new oil.Don`t forget the Posi oil Additive.

Good Luck,Ron

[Craig S.]

Re: Rear End Cover

Ron - that thinwall funnel idea is innovative! Thx for the tip!....Craig