When applying rtv, do I want to put it on the pumpkin side or the cover? The cover has grooves where the rtv is supposed to fill. I was going to put it on the pumpkin side, but does it matter? Also I was gonna place a bead, finger tighten. Wait an hour then tighten half turn. Then torque down the next day. Thanks

 

Either side should work, but I always do the cover, way easier to apply in a bench as opposed to the part in the car. When I do them I tighten fully and let it sit as long as possible before filling. I do this on everything

 

THanks for the response. Do you mean you just put the rtv on, then immediately torque to spec?

 

That’s what I do, yes. For the record I do not know what the actual procedure calls for, but this is what I always do, and always have done.

 

That's correct. You are supposed to apply the RTV to the cover as opposed to the differential assembly. Thread the bolts through and torque them down to 32 ft lbs of torque evenly. Applying to either side should work though.