[C1] 54 Engine Gaskets
Thread Starter
C1 &C2 Fan
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 416
Likes: 170
From: Coralville, IA
54 Engine Gaskets
I am looking for a little advice on gaskets for my 54. The engine is now torn apart and being overhauled. I have the rear main seal covered; this post is regarding the oil pan, side cover, valve cover, etc. I believe that they were cork originally. I don't see much mention of gaskets (or any?) in the NCRS TIM&JG. I am planning to have this car judged. I am assuming that using a cork gasket set makes sense in my situation. My engine builder thinks I should have decent luck in keeping things sealed and clean with cork gaskets if he uses some sealer when installing them. Or maybe cork is all that is available for these engines anyway? Anyone have any input or thoughts? I would really rather not have leak/seepage issues after I get done doing this nut-and-bolt restoration.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 5,514
Likes: 1,955
From: Plano IL
2026 Corvette of the Year Winner - Unmodified
2025 C1 of the Year - Unmodified Winner
2019 C1 of Year Finalist (stock)
2018 C1 of Year Finalist
Tony
Seriously consider converting the rear main seal to a one piece
I have 3 motors here I am doing - I convert ALL to a LS style rear main
NO rope seals and no leaks !!!!!
Gaskets were orignally cork
I use Fel Pro cork and I spray glue them - front and back
No RTV
I use 77 or a good spray glue
I spray one side - attach it to the part - let it dry
Then spray the other side/part - install it - No leaks !!!
I do use RTV of the front timing cover
On the intake - exhaust - the judging manual calls out the gaskets
They do look for the gasket
Seriously consider converting the rear main seal to a one piece
I have 3 motors here I am doing - I convert ALL to a LS style rear main
NO rope seals and no leaks !!!!!
Gaskets were orignally cork
I use Fel Pro cork and I spray glue them - front and back
No RTV
I use 77 or a good spray glue
I spray one side - attach it to the part - let it dry
Then spray the other side/part - install it - No leaks !!!
I do use RTV of the front timing cover
On the intake - exhaust - the judging manual calls out the gaskets
They do look for the gasket
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 5,514
Likes: 1,955
From: Plano IL
2026 Corvette of the Year Winner - Unmodified
2025 C1 of the Year - Unmodified Winner
2019 C1 of Year Finalist (stock)
2018 C1 of Year Finalist
I can get the part number on the rear main
There is a couple videos on U Tube
Basically
Install the rear main cap - torque - cut the cap and block for the real main seal
Line hone the block
Best thing ever !!!
There is a couple videos on U Tube
Basically
Install the rear main cap - torque - cut the cap and block for the real main seal
Line hone the block
Best thing ever !!!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 5,514
Likes: 1,955
From: Plano IL
2026 Corvette of the Year Winner - Unmodified
2025 C1 of the Year - Unmodified Winner
2019 C1 of Year Finalist (stock)
2018 C1 of Year Finalist
but I use a LS rear main.
I will get you a photo
