Why You NEVER ATTEMPT To Use RTV Gasket Maker Without Doing This First!!

Summary

In this video, the creator walks viewers through the process of fixing an intake manifold gasket leak after an initial attempt didn't use enough gasket maker. Through detailed steps, they explain the mistake made and how the fix was approached, including using more gasket maker and applying it properly. The video highlights the importance of thoroughness, offering insights into engine repairs, including scraping, torquing, and making adjustments to prevent future leaks. After completing the job, the truck runs smoother, and the creator shares the positive results after driving it for several days without any leaks.

Takeaways

• 😀 The intake manifold gasket replacement is a major job that requires careful attention to detail, especially when using gasket maker.
• 😀 Insufficient use of gasket maker on the intake manifold led to oil leaks, which required the entire job to be redone.
• 😀 The first attempt at the job resulted in the gasket maker not being applied adequately, especially at the rear of the engine, which caused oil to leak down the back of the engine onto the exhaust.
• 😀 The mistake was due to over-researching and underestimating the amount of gasket maker required, particularly with thick gaskets like those from Felpro.
• 😀 The correct application of gasket maker is crucial—too little leads to leaks, while using an adequate amount helps prevent leaks and ensures a proper seal.
• 😀 After redoing the job with more gasket maker, the intake manifold was reinstalled carefully, and the gasket maker squeezed out at the edges, indicating a proper seal.
• 😀 The process includes following specific instructions for the gasket maker, such as waiting for it to cure for an hour before tightening bolts to torque specifications.
• 😀 After reinstalling the intake manifold, the process continued with torquing the bolts and applying thread sealant to prevent leaks from the bolts.
• 😀 The intake manifold job was also paired with other maintenance tasks, including an oil change, replacing spark plugs, and cleaning up antifreeze from the engine.
• 😀 After completing the job and verifying everything was reassembled correctly, the truck started smoothly, and there were no signs of leaks or issues after several days of driving.
• 😀 The truck performed better after the repair, showing improved driving quality, likely due to fixing the vacuum leak and oil leaks from the intake manifold gaskets.

Q & A

What was the issue with the intake manifold gasket replacement?

The issue stemmed from not using enough gasket maker on the front and rear portions of the intake manifold. This led to oil leaks, especially at the rear, which required redoing the entire job.

Why did the author have to redo the intake manifold gasket job?

The author did not apply enough gasket maker, which caused oil to leak from the rear of the engine. This was particularly evident as oil leaked onto the exhaust manifold, prompting the need for a redo.

How did the author feel about doing the job again?

The author initially felt frustrated and disappointed but acknowledged that it was a learning experience and that they would be more prepared the second time around.

What lesson did the author learn regarding the use of gasket maker?

The author learned that you need to apply more gasket maker than you initially think, especially when using thicker drop-in gaskets, because the surfaces don't come as close together as expected.

How did the author prepare for the second gasket replacement attempt?

The author used more gasket maker, followed the correct procedures more carefully, and gave the gasket maker ample time to cure before tightening the bolts and continuing with the job.

What was the impact of not using enough gasket maker during the first attempt?

Not using enough gasket maker resulted in oil leaks, especially at the rear of the engine, which caused a lot of hassle and made the truck unsafe to drive until the issue was fixed.

What kind of gasket maker did the author use during the replacement?

The author used Permatex Ultra Gray gasket maker, which is designed for high-torque applications and offers a strong seal.

What preventative measures did the author take after reinstalling the intake manifold?

After reinstalling the manifold, the author allowed the gasket maker to cure for 24 hours before filling the engine with fluids. The bolts were tightened in stages to the specified torque.

Why did the author perform an oil change after removing the intake manifold?

The author performed an oil change because some antifreeze had likely leaked into the oil valley when the intake manifold was removed, potentially contaminating the oil with antifreeze and water.

What was the author's strategy to avoid damaging the engine after some antifreeze spilled into the intake?

The author removed the spark plugs to prevent the engine from starting with antifreeze in the cylinders. They turned the engine over manually to expel any liquids from the cylinders before reinstalling the spark plugs.