Hello all,

I've been reading as much as I can about the W27 rear ends and covers, but it looks like most everything I've read refers to the 12 bolt W27. The 71 I got last year came with a W27 cover, which was an option in 71. How do I tell if its OEM or repro? I'll get some pictures today after work and post them.

 

Thanks Joe! I'll get pictures later today.If the cover is not OEM it was most likely purchased in the late 80's.

 

W27 covers were an option in 1971, and they have a 10 bolt pattern. So 2 different covers - 12 bolt and 10 bolt.

 

Here are a couple of pictures. Please let me know if OEM, decent reproduction, or bad reproduction. I have read that there is a special gasket for the 12 bolt version. Are the 10 bolts the same? If so, does anyone have the p/n and/or where I can buy this gasket? Also, are the mounting bolts specific to the W27 cover or are the mounting bolts for the standard cover the same? If different can you let me know what I'm looking for on the bolts?

 

You don't need a gasket. I used Black RTV and no issues, that's exactly what they used in the shop that assembled the rear differential. 2 shops that I use for my rear axles never use gaskets, I gave them one that came in the kit and they said they prefer silicone. As far as the mounting bolts, regular cover bolts will not work as they are too short. You need 5/16-18, 1" long. I used ARP black oxide cause I like the contrast. ARP-651-1000