Rocker cover gasket help

[BritCarFan]

Hello forum,

How does on properly install a new cork gasket under the rocker cover. Is there some kind of adhesive that will make the gasket stay in place while assembling?

Thanks

 

[Adam58]

I like Hylomar. Never drys but holds things in place and doesn't leak. You can get it at Pep Boys etc.

Adam

 

[Steve_S]

You should have a couple tabs on the valve cover to hold it in place. It doesn't have to be perfect, just make sure it's even all the way around and apply medium hand torque to the valve cover nuts.

 

[dklawson]

On the A-series I don't think he'll have tabs to hold the gasket in place.

I use blue RTV to glue the gasket to the rocker cover. I place a flat plate on the workbench (a piece of glass is good) and rest the valve cover on that flat plate while the RTV cures. That keeps the head-side of the gasket flat while the RTV fills the voids to the rocker cover. This means very little torque is required to seat the valve cover to prevent leaks.

 

[Steve_S]

A-Series engine? What kind of MG are we talking about here? When a model isn't specified I always assume MGB.

 

[dklawson]

Steve, I assumed since the post was by BritCarFan that he was concerned about one of the cars in his profile. In this case, his 1990 Mayfair which I believe has an A+ engine. I'm sorry if I assumed too much.

An interesting thing about the forums here is that you're likely to see Sprite posts in the Healey forum just as often as seeing Midget posts in the MG forum. Both are valid places to post but in each instance the Spridget forum would probably get more replies.

 

[vping]

What's not pointed out is where to put the hylomar. On the gasket to cover - on the gasket to head - or both.

 

[RonMacPherson]

My recommendation, is when using any sealant, always put it on the component being bolted on. That way when you go to remove the component clean upwill be a lot simpler.

 

[dklawson]

Thanks for pointing that out Vping. I did say I used RTV to glue the gasket to the cover. I do not use RTV on the other side of the gasket. Sorry if that wasn't clear.

 

[PAUL161]

When I do cork gaskets, I lay the gasket on some type of throw away paper, cardboard etc. I then spray it with Permatex High Tack, turn it over and spray the other side. Follow directions for installing. It is a time proven product tested by many years of use in the automotive industry and racing circuit. The gasket is easily removed at a later date should you need to do so and if the gasket is not crushed or broken, can be used again. By spraying the gasket, you eliminate getting sealer on the engine components. Make sure the mating surfaces are clean and dry. I don't like vinyl sealers on engine parts. The factory didn't use them, neither will I. JMHO. PJ

 

[vping]

Thanks for pointing that out Vping. I did say I used RTV to glue the gasket to the cover. I do not use RTV on the other side of the gasket. Sorry if that wasn't clear.

No biggie at all.

It's what I usually do but I remember when I did not know this. I called attention to it cause I figure if others see this, it might make it more memorable to them that this conversation has taken place, in this thread.

 

[Adam58]

Hylomar on BOTH sides. It never sets so it can always wiped off.

Adam

 

[vping]

I only used sealer on one side. No leaks here.

 

[Steve_S]

I don't use sealer at all. No leaks. If your cover gasket is leaking you have one of three things happening...

1. Valve cover is warped or damaged
2. Excessive crankcase pressure / not venting properly
3. Low quality, permeable cork gasket

 

[tony barnhill]

I'm with Steve_S on this one.....I don't use anything....I fit it inside the 'groove' in the valve cover & install....no leaks.

 

[GB1]

/bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/iagree.gif naked

Pat

 

[jlaird]

/bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/iagree.gif naked

Pat

/bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/iagree.gif Of course.

 

[DrEntropy]

I use RTV to glue it to the cover. Strictly for convenience: if I want to take the cover off for any reason the gasket stays in position and seals easily the next go 'round.

 

[tony barnhill]

RTV will help hold it in the little groove when you turn it upside down, I've gotta admit.

 

[Nunyas]

I do the same as doc, primarily for the convenience. I've also swapped the cork gasket out for one of them silicon jobs. So far, it seals well, and isn't "hardening"