Replacing Engine Gaskets

Replacing Engine Gaskets

Gasket Reuse and Applying Sealant
- Do not reuse any gasket unless specified.
- Gaskets that can be reused will be identified in the service procedure.
- Do not apply sealant to any gasket or sealing surface unless specified in the service procedure.

Separating Components
- Use a rubber mallet in order to separate the components.
- Bump the part sideways in order to loosen the components.
- Bumping of the component should be done at bends or reinforced areas of the component to prevent distortion of the components.

Cleaning Gasket Surfaces
- Use care to avoid gouging or scraping the sealing surfaces.
- Use a plastic or wood scraper in order to remove all the sealant from the components.
- Do not use any other method or technique to remove the sealant or the gasket material from a part.
Do not use abrasive pads, sand paper, or power tools to clean the gasket surfaces.
- These methods of cleaning can cause damage to the component sealing surfaces.
- Abrasive pads also produce a fine grit that the oil filter cannot remove from the engine oil.
This fine grit is an abrasive and can cause internal engine damage.

Assembling Components
- Assemble components using only the sealant (or equivalent) that is specified in the service procedure.
- Sealing surfaces must be clean and free of debris or oil.
- Specific components such as crankshaft oil seals or valve stem oil seals may require lubrication during assembly.
- Components requiring lubrication will be identified in the service procedure.
- Apply only the amount of sealant specified in the service procedure to a component.
- Do not allow the sealant to enter into any blind threaded holes, as the sealant may prevent the fastener from clamping properly or cause component damage when tightened.
- Tighten fasteners to the proper specifications. DO NOT overtighten the fasteners.