third member gasket

[Huicho417]

I am getting ready to reassemble my rear end this weekend. When reinstalling the third member in the case, does the gasket go on dry or should I add some sealant?

 

[MoparBill]

I am getting ready to reassemble my rear end this weekend. When reinstalling the third member in the case, does the gasket go on dry or should I add some sealant?

I like to use some black rtv.

 

[TN Mopar]

Ultra black
The gasket is optional

 

[R413]

The gasket is a huge asset when it comes apart next time. The gasket will tear and it comes apart so much easier than with sealant alone.

getting it to seal is not the trick.

 

[Billccm]

Tucson Differential recommended only the Toyota FIPG and no gasket. I reassembled hand tight for 30 minutes then torqued to 30 ft lbs. That was over 6 months ago and no leaks.

 

[TN Mopar]

Differentials Plus in Hixson TN recommended no gasket as well when they rebuilt my differential

 

[threewood]

No gasket, ultra grey only.

 

[493 Mike]

I have always used only the gasket with no leakage. I believe with the engineering Chrysler had in the good old days, they accounted for the gasket thickness when the housing was manufactured. Leaving it out changes the dimensions.
Mike

 

[Huicho417]

Thank you for the feedback. One more question. I was about to press the rear bearing on the pinion and noticed there is a washer/shim between the bearing and pinion gear. I did not pay close attention when I removed it and did not notice one side has a taper while the other is flat, as shown in the pictures. Do anyone know what side the taper goes against, the pinion or bearing?

 

[StrokerSpanky]

Taper goes toward the pinion gear. Notice the radius where the gear meets the shaft.