Clunky rear end

[tarussell]

Ok.... it's minimal. I'm thinking it's the 203... been texting @Wes Harden all day. Thinking the diff is fine

John you got good eyes - I could not focus fast enough in that video.
Taken account for spider gear and spline slop since 1976 that play seems doable.

Wes is probably spot on with 203 slop - they are known for it and Lord knows it’s old enough to deserve some excessive play at this point.
At least ya’ got a lube service out of this - and a little peace of mind.

 

[tarussell]

Now would be a great time to install a No-Spin ( Detroit Locker ) in your open diff - just say’n…
That would creat the “good” kind of rear axle slop !

 

[TJ1978]

Now would be a great time to install a No-Spin ( Detroit Locker ) in your open diff - just say’n…
That would creat the “good” kind of rear axle slop !

No funds... I'm getting AC in my c10.... down the road for sure. And now I at least know the gear ratio..hahaha

Off to autozone for a gasket and 80-90 oil

 

[tarussell]

No funds... I'm getting AC in my c10.... down the road for sure. And now I at least know the gear ratio..hahaha

Off to autozone for a gasket and 80-90 oil

A/C is an understandable trade off - the older I get the more comfort takes a priority.

 

[TJ1978]

You guys recommend some RTV with the gasket or just gasket

Rtv the bolts as well

 

[nvrenuf]

I have always only used a dry gasket, just get the 2 surfaces SUPER CLEAN and dry with nothing on the bolts.

 

[cheavyk10]

The lube locker gasket goes on dry.

 

[TJ1978]

The only one local in stock was the fel-pro gasket

 

[TJ1978]

I have always only used a dry gasket, just get the 2 surfaces SUPER CLEAN and dry with nothing on the bolts.

No rtv on the bolts?

 

[fourwheelerjeff]

14bolt 3/4 8lug.... 35' tires and np203 part time kit.


@Wes Harden says rebuild or go 14ff...

what the difference?

 

[cheavyk10]

It's def a full floater.

 

[TJ1978]

It's def a full floater.

I

what the difference?

I wrote the wrong axle in the initial post (12bolt) and didn't edit the entire post... oops...

 

[nvrenuf]

No rtv on the bolts?

Peoples gasket "procedures" are as varied as how people torque the front spindle lock nuts, 500 people = 1000 ways to do it. lol

My preference... If the part in question doesn't have a history of issues, I use a dry FelPro gasket with the part(s) cleaned / dried like crazy and nothing on the bolts (except Loctite in the case of rear axle shafts, etc). I've never had an oil leak that was actually coming through the holes for diff cover bolts.

 

[TJ1978]

I cleaned the axle and diff cover very thoroughly, even the bolts holes on the axle and cover, getting all the previous rtv out and off. Hopefully it works.

I put in about 3.6 quarts but I'm reading some can take 5-6 quarts since my axle is angled up now and not stock, glad I bought the gallon and will add the rest tomorrow.

I put it on dry and we'll see tomorrow morning if the cardboard I laid down is dry.

 

[TJ1978]

This Tcase 203 is from 1974?

 

[nvrenuf]

Yes sir

 

[TJ1978]

The truck has a 203 with part time kit. I also have another 203 on the side of the house, also part time.

If this one is getting a bit stretched in the chain. Is this kit worth buying and fixing my other 203 or the one presently in the truck with it?

Will this kit keep it part time or not?

https://www.mechanicsurplus.com/products/135513668?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIkNTqh5Lw-gIVlhmtBh2hPAZgEAQYAiABEgKcKvD_BwE

 

[nvrenuf]

I don’t know a lot about 203’s but I don’t see a chain in that kit.

 

[fourwheelerjeff]

I saw the title and thought this thread might be in the Pen

 

[TJ1978]

I don’t know a lot about 203’s but I don’t see a chain in that kit.

That's separate.... of course.
Just trying to plan ahead as I'd hate to be/get stuck with a broken 203, then start planning the repair. I'd rather have one rebuilt and ready or the kit ready to go.

I'm assuming the chain in mine is aged and stretched a bit.