yeah but i read a TSB or something that stated it was a misprint ...

if you torqued 'em to 30 and it broke i'd back her down ....

but that's just me

here's a quick thread with a good reference

http://www.turbodieselregister.com/f...que-specs.html

check the klenger link

 

you know, you guys are making a problem where there shouldn't be one. after all, how critical is the torque on a cover that all it does is keep oil in and dirt out, it serves no other purpose..... now, on
the other hand head bolts, main and conn rod bearing bolts must be torqued to specs ........ i never use a torque wrench on non critical bolts.
i would spend too much time looking up torque specs rebuilding engines, transmissions, carburetors and what ever

 

Actually I didn't use a torque wrench either...

 

If it was a misprint, they didn't bother to fix it... I've got an 03 and an 06 manual, and they both say the same thing.

Anyway, I'm with you, in that seemed like overkill to me, too.

Now I just get them snug with a 3/8" drive ratchet and call it good. Since then I've never broken a bolt, or had one leak a drop.

 

Thanks for all the replies - I'm feeling ok with not using Loctite on the reinstall. Easy to keep an eye on things anyway since the truck sits high enough.

I don't know for sure the red stuff on the threads is Loctite - just presumed it was. It was a pull to back them out, but no way was it impossible, so it must be something else.

Thanks again for all the help!

 

If you worry about rust or them freezing in place use never seize, got taught about that stuff by a journeyman diesel mechanic many years ago. As for the TQ on the bolts, I just use good an tight and have not had a leaking diff cover in the past 30 years.

 

Going to take this service on. What size is the Fill Plug?
06 2500 AAM.

 

If you have the stock covers, I just used a standard 3/8" drive ratchet - it fits right in the square hole on both plugs.

 

I had snuggeed mine down after breaking two bolts on the rear diff and now it appears my front diff has developed a leak. Turns out some of the lower bolts (on the Defiant Diff Guard) were loose. I'm going to check the level tonight and keep an eye on it.

Perhaps the vibration of the ring gear turning can work the bolts loose over time? I'm thinking of one-by-one applying blue loctite to make sure it doesn't happen again.

-Chris

 

All I use on mine is 'elbow grease'
No problems, no leaks.

 

Does anyone know the bolt size and thread of the diff. cover bolts. You can save me a cold trip outside to pull a bolt and check. thanks