So whoever owned the car before me had no idea what differential fluid was, but after I filled it, it began to leak from the pinion seal. So I ordered a pinion seal and gasket. We changed the fluid(a buddy and I) by removing the plate to check for metal shavings. We realized there was no gasket before, so we did not put one on. Changing the pinion seal on the other hand, did not happen. Stupid flange would not come off. After deciding to leave it to a professorial, I now notice a drip coming from the gasket, not the pinion seal. Did I seal the pinion leak by using some super thick Lucas oil? Should I put the gasket on now? I Didn't think this belonged in the 240 forum because I'm basically complaining, not looking for a solution. Anyone have any sympathy for me?

 

You should put the gasket on.

 

+1 I always try to leave what I work on...the way it should be rather than how I found it. Some modern vehicles don't use a inspection cover gasket...but they typically have a heavier, cast aluminum cover rather than a stamped steel cover as the 240. I've actually had people say that the 240 cover has rusted out! Amazing...oh, the 740 cover will fit right on.

 

And that would not mess with the speedometer sensor?

 

Not at all...it was originally designed to use the gasket.

 

Would that explain why my dash speedometer does not register any speed until I'm above 15 mph or so...