OK, I've got my front axle completely apart, diff out and axles removed.

I'm ready to put it back together and I didn't buy a gasket kit. It looks like proper use of gasket sealer should work in lieu of the gasket between the spindle and knuckle? And the hub gasket also?

I guess the real question would be~ is there really anywhere where I NEED the gasket, or I can just make my own, right?

 

Yep, you should be fine making your own. I prefer the "cheez-whiz" style in a pressurized can. I use "The Right Stuff" from NAPA. It is super clean to use and doesn't stink like RTV. I've never had a leak with it but it is spendy...like 14.00 a can.
http://www.jegs.com/webapp/wcs/store...1_84608?CT=999

 

I just got finished tearing apart an axle that RTV was used in lieu of gaskets and let me tell you...PITA to get all that crap off of there. Gaskets are much easier to use and IMO the proper way to do it.

Get a knuckle service kit and it has all the seals and gaskets you need.



P.S. We sell knuckle service kits but even if you don't get it from us, you still should use gaskets and not RTV IMO.

 

sorry for the double-post, I must have twitched and didn't even know it.
Thanks for the replies. Well, I had just done a full knuckle rebuild (with Marlins HS axle seal too) and didn't want to plunk down more $ for just a couple of gaskets.

I'm good about fessing up tho, if I'm kicking myself next go-around, I'll post up here and give you a "I should have listened" salute.

 

Go buy the gaskets you need then.

 

Wabbitt is correct, ideally gaskets are best but RTV will do the job and I still find The Right Stuff is easier to work with and cleanup.