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Topic: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub? (Read 3538 times) previous topic - next topic

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #20 –
They are standard on heavy trucks however usually the plug is seized in and the cap breaks before it comes free.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #21 –
Wow, that's surprising that a pipe plug in oil would seize. Mine came right out when I tapped on the Allen wrench with a hammer. It appeared to have red RTV on the threads intentionally, like you'd put pipe dope on the threads, so that's what I did when I replaced the plug. The red RTV was probably from Foretravel when it was originally installed. Hopefully the pipe plug will come out years from now when I have to take it out next time.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #22 –
Mine also came right out when I drained them. No sealant on my threads, but the oil was pretty bad. A newpig form a funnel makes the job a clean piece of cake.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #23 –
I doubt foretravel uses any rtv at the factory when they build the coach. Why would I say this? Because I would wager the axle comes complete with hubs installed from meritor and ft just bolts the assembly on the coach.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #24 –
I suppose you could call Foretravel and ask them yourself if it really bothers you.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #26 –
The issue seems to be to use RTV or a gasket, I can never find the exact gasket, however cutting one from gasket material is very simple/easy.  RTV has its place, but unless you are familiar with using it, would not recommend it as we have pulled engines down that had been RTV'd where the RTV had gotten into the oil pickup screen and that became an issue of no oil to pump.  Not directly related to wheel bearings, but over use is not good, most weekend monkeys do not have the experience for proper use of it.  Make a proper gasket.
But its your baby, so have fun.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #27 –
Quote from: RRadio –
I suppose you could call Foretravel and ask them yourself if it really bothers you.

It bothers me not at all. You started this thread which is entitled, "RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?". Nearly 10 people responded to you and said use a real gasket--including guys that have done this stuff for many years. You choose to ignore this input and call up FT and who knows who you are speaking with...it may be a counter guy that's never turned a wrench.

Anyway, to get back on sealing stuff. I prefer #2 permatex as it doesn't harden like RTV. As dave mentioned, RTV breaks off and gets in bad spots and never disintegrates, especially in engines and fluid systems. #2 does well.

BUT, I pretty much exclusively switch over to anaerobic gasket makers like Loctite 515. It only cures where it is squeezed so any excess doesn't damage stuff. Also, it gives more time to assemble as it doesn't set up until squeezed. I used RTV the first time on my differential 3rd member install (I had to remove due to defective unit) and it was pain to clean. I used Loctite 515 the second go around and it hasn't leaked and was much less stressful to install due to no rush.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #28 –
I called Foretravel to ask them what gasket to order after I agreed with all of you that I needed to order a "real" gasket. Foretravel told me not to because they have always used red RTV and it seals better than a real gasket. I never suggested using RTV to Foretravel, but they immediately suggested it to me. When I took my hubcap off I saw some of the old red RTV on there which is what Foretravel said they used. I'm not saying I agree with them. I would have used a "real" gasket if they hadn't told me to use RTV... and that's all I know about this other than the RTV seems to have worked... and I'm sure I didn't use too much RTV. If you disagree with Foretravel that's okay with me. I don't have anything at stake either way. I only added the information for the benefit of others who might read this looking for a solution. I always think I'm adding some important content that will benefit other readers but then I regret it and promise myself I won't post on here anymore... (sigh)

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #29 –
Found the stemco kit on ebay for my year,it has the red cap,the clear plastic piece,a seal,and a gasket.I would use a gasket
until proven it did not work.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #30 –
Yes, please do... everyone please use a gasket.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #31 –
I just had both front hub assembly's changed, because it seemed as thought they were weeping a little bit.The coach was in for a leaking radiator.(That is ordered).They checked over the major parts of the coach, airbags, shocks, brakes , all looks good.When I drove out he said he was not going to charge me for this visit.I believe the whole hub assembly(no bearings)was around $55.00 a piece, I could be wrong but for that cost its worth changing and it comes with a gasket.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #32 –
Gasket material is pretty cheap at my parts house. I usually keep several sheets of differing thicknesses to make these types of gaskets. I also make (if I don't have a factory one) axle, thermostat, water pump, fuel pump, and/or pretty much any flat standard gasket. For  me, it's just quicker and easier.  ;D

TOM

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #33 –
Recently changed hub oil and researched the gasket,watched a Stemco video put out by Stemco,he specifically mentioned not
to use rtv as it can get in the bearing.Remember whatever oozes on the outside oozse on the inside also.Foretravel should have been using a gasket.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #34 –
I like to use a gasket with a thin coat of Permatex 80019 Aviation Form-A-Gasket #3 applied to both sides.  It allows for easier removal
of the two parts while leaving the gasket intact.  That's not to say that it doesn't require some coaxing on bigger components like valve covers.  In that instance I use a small block of wood under the lip and tap it with a hammer to get one end started.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #35 –
I did exactly what Foretravel told me to do. I used the red high temperature RTV. It's been several years and several trips across the USA since then. The RTV hasn't leaked and the bearing hasn't had any problems. Call Foretravel and explain to them that they don't know what they're doing. I just followed their instructions.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #36 –
Hey Scott - glad to see you're still posting, in spite of the flak.

I'm not saying what is or isn't correct, but when MOT did my front bearing replacement in Dec of last year, there was no paper gasket under the oil reservoir cover, just "red stuff", AND they reinstalled the cover with red RTV.  Seems to be SOP with MOT.

Go figure...

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #37 –
Scott,you probably put the right amount on,from what I remember of the video they did'nt want somebody using the whole tube.
When I took mine apart I thought there was a worm inside there was so much silicone and it was clear.

Re: RTV or "real" gasket on front wheel oil hub?

Reply #38 –
Well now we are on to something I know a lot about.  GASKETS.  Having owned a gasket shop in east Texas for almost 20 years and made gaskets for Stemco in Longview.  Things usually start out well and good. There are other things that take place over the years to change things.
1. The OEM manufacturer wants to save money and changes from one material to another.
2. A gasket material is substituted that is not compatible with the substance being sealed.
3. Someone along the way has tapped out a gasket on the flange (sealing surface) to be sealed and used a sledge hammer.
4. Improper torque.  (Over torquing can warp faces)  Inadequate prep of mating surfaces. 
5. Gasket dressing is sometimes helpful on gasket surfaces prior to installation.  On this I might just put a little antiseize on both sides of the gasket with your finger ir small brush.
6. Try and not re-use a gasket.
Good luck and have a great Sunday
John