Lady72nRob71

In replacing an oil pan gasket that is only available in cork, what is the best way to seal it for many years to come?

Cork valve cover gaskets have given me too many fits over the years and glad the rubber ones came to be.

No rubber oil pan gaskets can be had though for my application though.
Is it better to seal the cork with something like Permatex or loose the cork completly and just use a bead of RTV?

Bluevista

I've always used Permatex High Tack on the cork gaskets and have never had any problems.
I used the stuff on head gaskets in my youth, it didn't hurt anything.

cutlassjoe

On a different note but along the same lines how about tips on the trans pan gasket. I finished my resto, and the trans pan is dripping from the front. It is a new gasket, and I don't think they used any type of a sealer. Does any one have any tips. I have a new gasket and I am thinking of changing it this weekend. Thanks.

jpaulwhite

I've had good luck with spray gasket in an aerosol can. The can was blue and white. The actual gasket material was red.

Rickman48

On both trans and engine pan gaskets, I've had good luck with both permatex and auto silicone.
Just wipe the pan with a thin coat and install the gasket, let dry, and install on a clean surface, which I usually wipe with some kind of grease so the gasket doesn't stick. [for the next time/guy]
Same way for valve cover gaskets.
Just make sure all the holes and pan itself isn't distorted by 'overtightening'.

Lady72nRob71

I never even thought of just using on one side, figuring it would leak that way.
I guess as long as I do not overtorque and the pan seal surface is flat it it will be okay...
Want to do this right the first time, as there will not be another round.

citcapp

X2 on this. I have used it for years and never had a failure

Lady72nRob71

On one side of the gasket or both?

citcapp

I use it on both

greenslade

try a spray adhesive like bd1185 we used it on cummins oil pan cork gaskets,spray it on the pan and set the gasket on pan then spray the gasket before installing on eng.it tack up fast so.and works well

Rickman48

Right or wrong, my reasoning for grease on the machined part is to keep the cork gasket from drying out and ease of removal, next time.
Permatex or silicone will position the gasket and seal it to the 'tin, bendable' part.
Since machined flat, what's sealer gonna help?
With grease, you've only one side to clean if it comes apart again.

Nor Cal Andy

I have used a gasket sealer called Gaskacinch. The same stuff that Edelbrock sells. It is sold here in California I think you can get it other places through Summit or Jegs. I have used it for ever my Dad has used it on cork gaskets for 50+ years and it worked great but you have to let it tack up.. Its also referred to as Monkey Snot.. LOL I coat the metal surfaces and the gasket separately let it tack up for 5-10 min then put them together and I havent had leaks on anything..


Andy

71 Cutlass

X3


Also, in reference to the trans question. I stopped using cork trans gaskets long ago and have never has an issue with the newer rubber type (I get the whole kit with filter etc. from the local NAPA store). Also, if your trans pan is not TOTALLY flat all the way around, sometimes that is why it leaks in only one place(that spot may be bent causing a low spot for trans fluid to leak out).

jpaulwhite

Exactly how I do it!

Boldsmobile

Have you ever checked out the diesel pan gasket?
http://72.22.90.30/phpBB2/viewtopic....sel+pan+gasket

olds 307 and 403

SCE makes a 3 rubber pan gasket set. Corteco and Milidon makes fiber pan gaskets.

Bayou Olds

Ditto. I am a true Permatex believer.

Lady72nRob71

Looks like I will do permatex, since I have that and the cork gasket already.
I will keep my fingers crossed.
If it leaks, the motor is NOT coming out again.....