[mdoyle]

I use a very light coat of Permatex Blue on the cover, then align the gasket and apply a small weight, keep it on a flat surface (your glass coffee table will work provided your Wife doesn't catch you putting car parts on it). The kitchen counter is another good spot, you just want a good flat surface to establish the gasket bond in a coplanar fashion.

Let it set up about 30 minutes, then install making sure the machined differential casting is completely clean and free of old gasket material. You don't want to see any Permatex squeeze out between the gasket and cover, if there is you've installed too much, clean it off to avoid contamination of the differential.

Do not apply lubricant to the gasket, that's common practice on oil filters to compensate for sliding friction as they are tightened, and prevents seal distortion, but it doesn't apply to this style of seal.

Torque the cover bolts in a crossing pattern, I'm guessing to around 14 to 18 lb ft, but verify that with a reliable source.