how to soften cork
 

Am about to connect transmission to drive shaft, ('46 59 engine) the cork seal that goes in the 2 piece cap for the universal joint, its perhaps 3/8" x 1/4", am afraid to bend it, what can be used to soften the cork material, light oil, heated water, steam, heated oil ????

Re: how to soften cork
 

Warm water. Someone makes a rubber seal that works pretty well too.

Re: how to soften cork
 

I recently replaced the cork halves massaged a little heavy oil into them all up and running now no issues

Re: how to soften cork
 

New one is in this tranny gasket set from C&G for $7.95: https://cgfordparts.com/ufolder/cgca...&sp=Search+%23

Re: how to soften cork
 

Old Henry
Yes, thanks, have sets from Drake and feel they are fairly new, just would like to take that extra step. Also am in Canada and getting items from the US doubles in cost when taking in to consideration shipping, duties, currency exchange, brokerage fees and the time for shipment.

Re: how to soften cork
 

I know that there are folks who swear by the traditional cork seal and there are those who swear at it. Since my rear end is out I checked the cork seal which had been in place for about 48 years and found it to be whole and in place but, very brittle and no longer "swelled up" for maximum sealing. Wish there was a way to reduce Canadian costs. There's a blue O-ring style neoprene seal on Ebay that has good reviews.

Re: how to soften cork
 

When I installed the cork seals, I soaked them in engine oil.

Another item to observe is that back many years ago, the cork seal was shaped with two sides longer than the other, not square. This shape allows the cork to form better between the clam shell and the ball shaped part of the drive shaft. I have them in my car over 20 years and no leaks. Just my 2 cents worth.

Re: how to soften cork
 

I use vaseline on the cork joints on my horn (oboe) and it keeps them in good, pliable condition. It doesn't last too long, though. I'd think that the lubricant that's being sealed in would keep the cork pliable after installation.

If there is a modern rubber seal material that fits, that would be a better bet. I expect the amount of sitting some of these cars do would tend to let the cork dry out.