Gasket sealing questions....
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 3,025
Likes: 12
From: Pleasant Grove AL
Originally Posted by c3vettelover
What is the "best" way to seal engine gaskets to prevent leaks? 
Many recommend silicone. I don't like silicone because i've taken apart to many engines with silicone in places where it shouldn't be. If you must, use silicone on the front and rear of the intake manifold instead of the neopreme gaskets supplied. Be sure to keep the silicone out of the lifter valley if you do this.
Everyone has a favorite method, choose your poision and take your chances. The real key is clean surfaces and properly positioned gaskets.
Racer
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 401
Likes: 0
From: IL
Proper torque is the most important. Next comes the sealing surface finish. Such as corrosion on Aluminum manifolds or rusty Cast Iron Water Pumps. And last is the condition of the theads in holes and on fasteners. All of these insure a proper seal and provide the proper load on the joint to keep it from leaking.
When selecting a gasket, don't go with the cheapest. Spend a little extra and get the right type. Such as the Fel-Pro Perma-Toque line. These have been proven to solve problem applications (Chevy V/C's). Also the one piece Oil Pan gaskets for the older Chevys have save many driveways accross America. There are some other quality gasket manufactures out there, just spead that wallet a little more and you be better of.
And finally, don't get carried away with RTV or Copper type sealers. The gaskets are designed to be used without sealers,(unless noted) and as long as everthing else is in good shape they will seal correctly.
Have fun,
Later.
When selecting a gasket, don't go with the cheapest. Spend a little extra and get the right type. Such as the Fel-Pro Perma-Toque line. These have been proven to solve problem applications (Chevy V/C's). Also the one piece Oil Pan gaskets for the older Chevys have save many driveways accross America. There are some other quality gasket manufactures out there, just spead that wallet a little more and you be better of.
And finally, don't get carried away with RTV or Copper type sealers. The gaskets are designed to be used without sealers,(unless noted) and as long as everthing else is in good shape they will seal correctly.
Have fun,
Later.
