A Piece of Advice
 

I went to retorque the engine today after starting and I ended up breaking the water outlet. This was while using a copper gasket. I read that the problem is in how flat the surfaces are, but mine were perfectly flat. Here is a piece of advice for everybody, don't think you can outsmart it - just use some permatex.

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

I don't use a gasket, just a dab of the 'Right Stuff'

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

Been happening to everyone with a spanner since 1927.

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

I don’t go over 45 ft#

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

Did that done that many years ago. I also think I heard that if you use a gasket, to get a very thin paper type gasket.

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

watch out for some copper outlet gaskets that do (not) have inserts at the studs. when i received some from a vendor without the inserts, I called them and said if i use them i will break the outlet. and they said it should OK. I broke the outlet and sent back the rest of the gaskets. if you are not showing and both surfaces are good and flat RTV works just fine,

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

Nothing more than a thin wipe of silicone!

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

My torque wrench was messed up, finally figured it out after I pulled a stud out of the block. Took it to my mechanic and he compared it to his and I was trying to torque to 125. Got a new one and haven't messed anything up but then I don't go but about 50 - 55 lbs.

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

I have gone to 65# on mi e in small increments and been fine with a paper gasket. Knock on wood.

Mike

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

About once a year I check my click type (old) torque wrench against the old reliable needle type. Easy enough to do w/a 1/2" drive 8 point socket.

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

I fully agree, if your using the proper torque spec, you are safe only if you use no gasket, or the proper copper with the bolt hole seals. Why risk it?

As to torque wrenches, I'm 73, and been using my same old beam/pointer wrench since I got it in high school. I've never given its accuracy a second thought.

Re: A Piece of Advice
 

You will be surprised at how warped the outlet casting often is. Blue check the outlet casting to the manifold. Work the high spots on the casting until there is nearly full contact. At that point it is your choice either a very thin paper gasket or none at all.