Gasket Problems

[coolcat]

Hi Guys - I have some oem gaskets that have dried out some, that I would like to use. I don’t want to stretch them to fit as they may break. Any Ideas on how to soften them up, so they will return to their original shape? Thanks Ed

 

[RootesRacer]

What specific gasket?

Some can be soaked in water, others oil, others tossed.

 

[puff4]

Yeah, agree - it really depends on the gasket composition - cork, paper, composite, etc.

 

[65sunbeam]

Hi Ed!
Here is the best thing to do. Place the gaskets back into the original Rootes box and then sell the whole thing to John Green. Use the proceeds to buy 6 sets of replacement gaskets............;-)

 

[coolcat]

Gasket Problem

Paper type Oil pan gasket !/16" thick. Water or Oil soak?? WD40?? Thanks

 

[puff4]

I'd *moisten* it with water (not wet!) and see if it relaxes a bit... if so, then moisten just a wee bit more and hold it down with weights until dry. But... if you are at all in doubt as to their utility after drying (shrinkage, etc.) then buy new ones - cheap insurance in the end.

 

[65beam]

ed,
eric suggestion sounds good to me . or just send them to me and i'll tell you what i decide after i use them . i soaked some paper gaskets with water and they still tore .just use a product from permatex called THE RIGHT STUFF . it works great .

 

[jumpinjan]

Ed,
Those old gaskets are toast. I buy high quality gasket material in bulk and make my own.
Jan