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.

^ Important: Do not overtighten the fasteners.

Tighten the fasteners to the proper specifications.