How to Replace Car Axle Housing Gaskets

The axle housing gaskets, or differential housing cover, are important to the proper functioning of your differential system and should be inspected and replaced as needed. The following steps will help you when you need to replace the car axle housing gaskets.

Instructions

1

Notice the location of the differential housing cover. This will determine whether or not you need to secure the vehicle on jack stands and whether or not the wheels will need to be removed. The differential housing cover could also be located near the front or rear, towards the center.

2

Assume you are working with a straight axle assembly for the following process. Place a catch pan underneath the differential housing area to catch the differential fluid that will escape when the housing is removed. It's a good idea to wear protective eye wear and gloves when working with automotive fluids of any kind.

3

Use a ratchet and socket of the appropriate size to loosen the top mounting bolt without removing it completely. Loosen and remove the other bolts, then allow the fluid to drain completely before removing the last bolt and subsequently the cover. If the cover does not come loose, gently tap with a rubber mallet to avoid damage.

4

Scrape the old gasket off the cover with a gasket scraper, available at all auto part stores. Use brake fluid or automotive solvent to clean the surface where the gasket is to be installed. Clean the axle housing surface, too, to take care not to get any debris in the differential.

5

Wipe the inside of the rear differential. You want to clean the housing, but not impact the bearings at all or they will lose essential lubrication. Line the gasket up on the cover and insert one bolt through both. Place the cover back into place and insert the remaining bolts. Tighten them all without torquing to ensure they are all correctly seated, then torque according to manufacturer's specifications.