Fordomatic
 

Can silicone be used for a transmission pan gasket on a Fordomatic. Thanks

Re: Fordomatic
 

You can use but I don't recommend. If you have to use just a very thin film and keep away from inside edge. If you need to use a sealer there are other good products such a Right Stuff made by Permatex although a little pricey. Coppercoat would be a good product if you are trying to keep gasket in place while installing the pan. You do not want to chance any silicone getting into the trans. Right Stuff would make a good gasket.

Re: Fordomatic
 

Parts stores used to have rolls of plain gasket material so you can make your own. Silicon can be made to work but the stuff is getting to be more pricey than a gasket would be these days. It would take a lot of silicon material on some pans depending on how they are formed.

Re: Fordomatic
 

Cheapest, quickest, simplest, and most leak-free solution is to simply go to a parts store or on line and buy the right ready-made gasket.

Re: Fordomatic
 

Put the flange of the pan on the edge of a flat surface and flatten the bolt holes with a hammer. To be clear, what you are trying to do is flatten the bolt holes surfaces that are usually deformed from over tightening the attaching bolts. You can then lay the pan bottom side up on a flat surface and make sure it isn't warped too much. If it is, simply "twist" it back into shape. If the mating surface of the pan and transmission are clean and clear of old gasket material it won't leak. Make sure to use the correct 5/16-18 screws just don't be tempted to over tighten the bolts. You shouldn't need any sealer if you do this. If it will make you feel better to use a little silicone by all means do so, but just a light coat.