CHanging the rear differential fluid...

[snorander]

Getting ready to change the rear differential fluid on my 2001 GMC Jimmy. I was wondering if I need a gasket or not. I have read in many places that people a. use the gasket, b. use the gasket with silicone, c. only use silicone & no gasket. I would love to know what works the best. I have also read not to use silicone & the gasket together, just use the gasket alone or just use silicone alone.

Thanks,

Steve

[93gmcjimmy]

You should always replace a gasket with a gasket especially when you break the seal on one. Silicone is not a proper replacement for a gasket. As long as you clean the surface the gasket is going on and use a good quality gasket. Don't go buy some el cheapo gasket from auto zone. Make sure you either go to the dealer (best option) or go to napa or o' reilly's and get a fel- pro or mr gasket or something like that. You shouldn't have any probs if you just do those two things.