Quick question on TPI runner gaskets
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2021
Posts: 1,312
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From: Northern California
Quick question on TPI runner gaskets
L98 in 1989 - install the TPI runner gaskets dry, or with gasket compound such as Permatex? I see nothing in the FSM at all on whether to use a sealing compound, but these are fiber composition gaskets and vacuum leaks at the runners are a PITA if they surface.
Thanks
Thanks
Race Director
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From: Overland Park Kansas
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I used a very thin layer of sealer to "glue" the gaskets to one side prior to installation. I did so to make sure gaskets didn't "creep" during installation/torque. Back in 2010, I did a poll. 1/3rd of responders thought you shouldn't use a sealer because IT might cause a leak. One of the issues is whether the sealer is fuel resistant (even though fuel doesn't really get up in the runners). Because I didn't think so, I opted for the sealer. IIRC, I probably used a very thin layer of "The Right Stuff" to seal (actually glue mine) in place.
Gaskets, themselves are designed to fill the gaps -- and, therefore, plug any leaks. So the choice to use a sealer isn't really to aide in sealing....IMO.
For clarity, I "glued" the gaskets to one side of the pieces to be assembled, then let dry overnight. I did not use sealer during actual assembly of the runners.
Gaskets, themselves are designed to fill the gaps -- and, therefore, plug any leaks. So the choice to use a sealer isn't really to aide in sealing....IMO.
For clarity, I "glued" the gaskets to one side of the pieces to be assembled, then let dry overnight. I did not use sealer during actual assembly of the runners.
Last edited by GREGGPENN; Jun 3, 2021 at 01:34 PM.
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2021
Posts: 1,312
Likes: 384
From: Northern California
Thanks - I am pondering doing the same thing. The Fel Pro OEM-style black composition gaskets are what I'm using, and they have a pressed-in relief / ring around the perimeter of the circles that go around each runner sealing area. I think this is designed to crush a bit under torque and fill slight undulations / imperfections in the aluminum sealing faces. So some slight movement of the gasket is to be expected when you torque, but like you said we don't want it to creep out of position before final torque.
Others please chime in with your opinions based on your experiences - thanks -
Others please chime in with your opinions based on your experiences - thanks -
Drifting
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 1,663
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From: Baton Rouge, Louisiana, metro area
I did my runners dry although most other gaskets I smear a thin skin of sealant.
No issues with leaks so far. My runner gaskets had small plastic **** to hold them in place. (1991 L98)
No issues with leaks so far. My runner gaskets had small plastic **** to hold them in place. (1991 L98)
Instructor
Joined: May 2019
Posts: 148
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From: Virginia
Indian Head sealer around the port holes both sides of the gaskets.... leave it a bit before installing and it will hold them in place and seal... at least that's what I have always done.... no problems yet...
