Howdy, I've not ever done a rear axle service personally and my buddy that has just has done Chevy 10 and 12 bolts so neither of us are familure with how to service a 9" style rearend with the dropout center section. If all I want to do is change the fluid and look for metal flakes how to go about doing that? Should I just use Silicone instead of a new gasket or is the gasket recomended? Thanks,
To pull the Riv's 3rd member, will have to remove the tires/wheels, brake drums,unbolt the axles, remove the bolt-in axles, then unbolt the 3rd member & carefully remove it. At this time, run a magnet through the r/e grease & see how much metallic grit is in the housing. Housing will need to flushed well. If it was me, I would examine the axle bearings & the rear brakes. If the axle bearings have never been replaced, it would be smart move to do so. GM New Departure/Hyatt bearing book shows 88128R axle bearing. A good parts counterman should be able to crossover to Timken or Fed Mogul (BCA-Bower) & also ck for a gasket. Good luck. :3gears: Roger
