Dumb sealant question

[danleym]

I'm putting on a new timing chain, and the shop manual says no sealant on the timing cover gasket. Based on the type of gasket, I'm a little skeptical, and just want to make sure I'm reading everything right. Have you guys all went without sealant and had no problems?

 

[JohnB]

I always use some gasket sealer. Not rtv but I like that air craft grade tar gasket dressing. I just light smear it on the paper gasket on both sides.
Indian head gasket would also work and I think some just use that permatax gasket tack that you can spray on.

 

[riceybean]

I hear Hondabond is the stuff to use.

 

[rover4x4]

Hondabond is good stuff, I've given up on rtv

 

[seventyfive]

I've heard the hondabond is very good stuff. Personally I use this http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/Sealant/ES2679386/

Front cover I just clean the face and the block with paint prep clean solve then coat the front of the block with high-tac. Put the paper gasket on the block not the cover, so you want knock or tear it when putting the front cover on.

Wether you use sealant or not the big problem we've seen is people over tightening the front cover hardware which will squish the paper gasket too much. So just don't over tighten the bolts.

 

[DiscoveryAuto]

No sealant is needed.

 

[rovercanus]

Adding to what Mike said, clean your bolts good and make sure you have nothing in the bolts holes. Then use a torque wrench set to the correct specs. There is also a tightening sequence you should follow.

 

[d1driver]

Buy a can of Right Stuff. Most auto parts stores carry it. Kinda pricey, but I have had great results with the stuff. Now the factory replacement crank seals are another story.