Thread: Gasket sealant

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There are a lot of different opinions, but this is what I would do.

1) I would run a small bead of silicone on the ends and trash the gaskets that come with the kit be they cork or rubber.
2) I use the gasket supplied with a thin coat of #2 Form-A-Gasket.
3) Same as number 2.
4) The trick here IMHO is to make sure the bolt holes in the pan are flat, the surfaces are clean and using the gasket supplied tighten the bolts in a sequence from side to side to side. Once everything is snug you can torque the bolts to manufacturers specs in sequence.

Thanks NTFDAY
I've heard afew people recogment not using the end gaskets. Is the silicone good enough to withstand any pressure, or should I use the gasgets with the silicone on them?(for the ends of the intake)

I tend to shy away from silicone,it was wonderfull stuff 20 years ago but I've seen it cause more leaks than seal them especially on intake ends.
I would suggest Permatex "The Right Stuff" Comes in a cheese wiz can or a small caulk gun tube.. it's a little pricey but worth it. for things such as timing cover gaskets I squeeze some on my finger and spread it very thin.

Do yourself a huge favor and get a 1-piece pan gasket if you don't already have one. Check the holes in the gasket with the bolts that you will use to make sure the gasket holes are the correct size. Some Ford Motorsport gaskets have been found with holes that are too small. Here's a link to the Milodon gasket. (everything I've ever bought from Milodon was first-class).
http://www.jegs.com/i/Milodon/697/41005/10002/-1

Originally Posted by stovens

Thanks NTFDAY
I've heard afew people recogment not using the end gaskets. Is the silicone good enough to withstand any pressure, or should I use the gasgets with the silicone on them?(for the ends of the intake)

I never use the end gaskets and yes silicone can leak if it's not applied right and the surfaces aren't clean. A small bead, approx. 1/4" wide and 1/4" high will do the trick. I use spray brake parts cleaner to clean the surfaces as it doesn't leave any residue.