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And I bought a tube of clear GE silicone to do the gaskets on my ford 400 at Home Depot. Amazing how fast you can run a bead with a caulking gun!

R.



Don't know if I'd use GE silicone, not sure it is formulated for engine heat, it could harden and crack, thus causing leaks.

I've had really good luck with Permatex Ultra Blue. Be sure to follow the directions EXACTLY. I find that allowing the product to "skin" before assembly really helps. Also allow the sealant to cure for a FULL 24 Hrs. before starting the motor. I've found that failing to allow the permatex to cure led to oil and water leaks.

Also in the case of solving oil or water leaks, cleanliness is absolutely critical. Wipe down any sealing surface with brake cleaner or acetone prior to using Permatex. Good sealing REQUIRES a surface that is COMPLETELY free of oil, grease, or water. This is particularly true of anti-freeze. Anti-freeze have corrosion inhibitors that act like an oil, if the parts being joined aren't completely free of anti-freeze the part will leak.

Finally DON'T over-torque your fasteners. Common leaks at the thermostat housing are almost always caused by over tightening.

Hope this helps.

Regards,

Joe Dokes