Topic: Is gasket cement recommended for the oil pan gasket?

[grumpy]

Or is a new gasket good by itself?

[Frankenkit]

I'd add a thin schmear of gasket goo.  Not enough to go anywhere it shouldn't, but just enough to help make sure the oil pan doesn't weep.

[Gordon]

Some do, some don't.  I don't and have never had one leak on me. 

[saw750]

lol i am at the same point in my rehab and have the same question ie gasket cement on the oil pan gasket??

i was always taught to rarely ever use gasket cement...

when i purchased the new gasket from the dealer they said "no cement" but my "mentor" - who owns a cycle shop and has been wrenching on cycles since before i was born - says "yes cement" - he taught me the ways of old triumph (i dont know if that is good or bad..lol ; ) he says RTV

so i am curious which is correct?

i can tell you that the original gasket looked as if it did have a thin coat of gasket cement applied to it at one time..

saw

[Bob Wessner]

If both surfaces are clean and true, you shouldn't need any. Another personal opinion, of course. 

[Alan F.]

+1 for clean surfaces and a dry gasket.

[scottly]

+1 for clean surfaces and a dry gasket.

+2

[mystic_1]

+3



BUT, in his book Hondaman recommends sealing the heads of the oil pan bolts with sealant, to prevent them from leaking.  Seems like good advice.

mystic_1

[saw750]

yep sounds like the the plan ie no cement

however..this is interesting..lol


http://www.dansmc.com/gaskets.htm

[wrenchmuch]

when i purchased the new gasket from the dealer they said "no cement" but my "mentor" - who owns a cycle shop and has been wrenching on cycles since before i was born - says "yes cement" - he taught me the ways of old triumph (i dont know if that is good or bad..lol ; ) he says RTV

If you do use a sealant with gaskets don't use RTV . It seems to be more prone to getting loose in the engine then other sealing compounds . Three bond 1104 or equivalent THINLY applied Just before assembly if you think you need it .

[Skunk Stripe]

No cement here either. Nothing on the bolts. no leaks at all all.

[MCRider]

Your dansmc.com article says stay away from silicone, so if the RTV is silicone, I would stay away. On the CB750s, thats a good way to twist a cam. You would want to use the "elephant snot" type that stays semi flexible and spreads very thin.

He says use some grease. I'd always been taught to use a little motor oil between the fingers. Sounds like the same approach.

Finally, if you use cement just cement one side. The gasket will stick to that side hopefully if you have to take it off and you can reuse it, again hopefully.

Otherwise, dry should be fine.