Sump gasket sealant

[Pat's91]

When replacing the sump gasket, would you recommend silicone RTV putting on one side of the gasket, both sides (or neither) to reduce or eliminate oil leaks?

Thanks, Pat

[gotglasses]

I would not use silicone for this, for that matter whenever I use it it tends to blow out and leak oil. It does make it easier to remove the item .

I would use Permatex #2, non-hardening on the pan, place the gasket, let it set up a while and then "offer" it up to the block dry, or with a light film of axle grease on it. You may need to put a bit of permatex on the area at ends where there is another joint. If you coat both sides it is hard to get off in future.

[papajam]

I've found, more often than not, that the lower sump gasket has shrunk so it doesn't fit properly. So I throw the thing in the sink or spray it with a garden hose or something to get it good and wet. While the gasket is 'cooking', I put a film of engine oil on the pan and block. After a few minutes, the gasket has expanded to it's 'normal' size. I'll then place the gasket on a piece of cardboard to blot up the excess water and bolt the thing together.

[Pat's91]

Thanks for the tips!! Pat