Bonehead question..
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Mar 1999
Posts: 551
Likes: 4
From: San Antonio Texas
Bonehead question..
I'm changing my valve covers on my 87.. So I'm replacing the gaskets. My question: Do I also have to use a sealant? Do I just put the gaskets in place? Autozone folks tell me get the blue sealant. Dealer tells me just use the gaskets.
Thanks,
RM
Thanks,
RM
Racer
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 290
Likes: 0
From: Nashville TN
Re: Bonehead question.. (rmedina)
I guess it's really personal preference. The gaskets alone will probably work without sealant, but by putting sealant on the valve cover side it will make the covers easier to work with and put on.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 9,715
Likes: 27
From: Kempner Texas
Re: Bonehead question.. (85z51vette)
You've got to be careful with that sealant question. It depends on the type of gasket you're using.
Some gasket specifically say NOT to use any sealant, whatsoever.
Last week I installed a set of the Fel-Pro Super Dry "whatever" gaskets (about $35 bucks) and they specifically do not use sealant. I've used the black rubber type which have a metal center core and they, too, do not call for sealant.
Follow the package directions and/or check the maker's (couldn't spell manufacturer's) website for which way to go.
Hope this helps.
Jake
Some gasket specifically say NOT to use any sealant, whatsoever.
Last week I installed a set of the Fel-Pro Super Dry "whatever" gaskets (about $35 bucks) and they specifically do not use sealant. I've used the black rubber type which have a metal center core and they, too, do not call for sealant.
Follow the package directions and/or check the maker's (couldn't spell manufacturer's) website for which way to go.
Hope this helps.
Jake
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 1,238
Likes: 0
From: walled lake MI
Re: Bonehead question.. (rmedina)
in the november 2001 hot rod magazine, there is an article on gaskets with a sidebar on sealants (p. 58). in short, you should not have to use a sealant if the mating surfaces are clean of dirt and oil, have no scratches, and the bolts are properly tightened.
other cautions include -
- don't use RTV (silicone) on one piece gaskets as the gasket might slide out when torquing down.
- never use adhesive or other sealing compound on a molded rubber gasket
[edit] oh, and the only bonehead questions in this forum are the ones that aren't asked! :cheers:
[Modified by tempest, 10:58 PM 11/2/2001]
other cautions include -
- don't use RTV (silicone) on one piece gaskets as the gasket might slide out when torquing down.
- never use adhesive or other sealing compound on a molded rubber gasket
[edit] oh, and the only bonehead questions in this forum are the ones that aren't asked! :cheers:
[Modified by tempest, 10:58 PM 11/2/2001]
