ok, I`ve got the fluid and am ready to change it out. My question is this, what do you torque the bolts to when reinstalling the cover ? I`ve searched for this, but can`t seem to find it.

TIA

 

Fill plug 24 ft pounds
cover bolts 30 ft pounds

 

Thank you very much, exactly what I needed to know.

 

I need to do this too. Do you have to change the gasket or anything like that.

 

I didn't change the gaskets, in fact I didn't even completely remove the covers - you can loosen but not completely remove a couple of the top bolts and the fluid will drain. You will need to remove most of the other bolts.

 

gaskets are re-usable
someone correct me but i swear i thought i read somewhere that the 30 ft lbs for the cover bolts was a miss print and is too much, more around the 18-20 ft lb range??? any one back me up on that?

 

Hmmm - don't know about a mis-print. I just checked the service manual for mine and it says what dcsmith30 stated before - 24 for the fill plug and 30 for the bolts...

 

Lots of POSTS about snapping off cover bolts at 30ft lbs.Then LOTS of posts about just using the SNUG method.Thats what I did.

 

I think it's a good idea to completely remove the cover to inspect for debris, unusual wear pattern, etc. You can wipe out anything that didn't get flushed out.

 

Imports have had a drain and fill plug for decades.I see no harm in NOT removing the cover.

 

I have changed mine twice using the 30/24 foot pound method and haven't broken off any bolts. Now I did it. Better be lookin' for some wood to knock on.

 

I was reading one of the latest TDR issues (can't remember which now) and it said 18 ft lbs for the cover bolts as well. The article indicated that the 30ft lb spec was a misprint in the service manuals carried over from the Dana axles. If you look at the cover bolts from a Dana vs the AAM you will see the grade difference. I've gone with 18ft lbs or until they have felt snug the last two times and I've been fine.

Karl

 

I just emailed AAM directly tonight, asking them for their recommendations for the correct torque specs for both the front and rear axles/differentials. As soon as I hear back I'll post.

Oh - BTW - Advance Auto Parts has Mobil1 75W90 on sale for $8.18 a quart... I'm buying enough for two changes.

 

How much fluid does the 11.5" hold, and I guess the front too if anyone knows?

 

Buy 7; 4 for the rear, 3 for the front.

I've never broken any studs either. Maybe I've rotated my tires too often, but 30 isn't much.