Easy Guide: Install Fel-Pro One-Piece Oil Pan Gasket

Installing an oil pan gasket can be a challenging task, especially when performed in-chassis. The Fel-Pro one-piece oil pan gasket is designed to simplify this process and address common challenges associated with oil pan gasket replacement. This introduction will discuss the features and benefits of the Fel-Pro one-piece oil pan gasket, including its innovative design, ease of installation, and sealing effectiveness. Additionally, we will explore the installation process, highlighting the use of Fel-Pro's SnapUps® technology and the proper application of RTV. By the end of this discussion, readers should have a comprehensive understanding of the Fel-Pro one-piece oil pan gasket and its advantages over traditional multi-piece assemblies.

Gaskets are to be installed dry, with no adhesive

Gaskets are integral to engine operations, creating a physical barrier between two parts. They prevent dust, dirt, fluids, gases, and electrostatic discharges from inhibiting the engine's performance.

Fel-Pro's PermaDryPlus® and PermaDry® gaskets are designed to be installed dry, with no adhesive. This is because these gaskets feature advanced leak-sealing technology built directly into the gasket. The use of RTV or other sealers on these gaskets can hinder their ability to form a reliable seal and cause leaks.

The PermaDryPlus® gasket features in-house molded silicone rubber with strategically placed sealing beads molded to rigid carriers, providing a perfect fit without the need for adhesives. The gasket's silicone rubber eliminates leak paths, especially in problem corner areas. The gasket also has torque limiters to prevent over-compression and deformation of sealing surfaces.

The PermaDry® gasket is intended for vehicles that originally used a molded rubber gasket. These gaskets are made with Fel-Pro's proprietary molded rubber formulations and are precision-engineered for each application.

For both types of gaskets, it is important to ensure that the surface is clean and dry before installation, without any additional sealants used.

RTV is only necessary at corners or stepped areas

When installing Fel-Pro's PermaDryPlus® and PermaDry® gaskets, they must be installed clean and dry. RTV is only necessary at the corners or where there may be a stepped area, such as an RMB retainer to block joint. This is because, due to their shape and design, some moulded rubber gaskets require RTV as a supplemental sealer.

RTV should not be used on the entire gasket. Instead, it should be applied to the gasket's corners and/or stepped casting areas with gaps. Using a small amount of RTV will fill in these areas, ensuring a leak-free assembly.

Applying RTV to the wrong areas can cause permanent damage to the gasket, such as over-compression and splitting. It may also cause the gasket to slip out of place. Rubber gaskets are designed to withstand a certain amount of compression. Adding RTV or a sealer increases the compression on the gasket beyond what it was designed for.

It is important to remember that when the casting/gasket is torqued into place, the RTV will flow into the joint and gasket. Manufacturers will often recommend the amount of RTV to be used, and a small amount goes a long way.

Adhesives can be used on cork/rubber gaskets

Installing an oil pan gasket can be a challenging task, especially when the engine is still in the vehicle. The Fel-Pro one-piece oil pan gasket is designed to simplify this process. Its one-piece construction, rigid carrier, and Oil Pan SnapUps® aid in quick and easy installation.

When it comes to the use of adhesives, it is important to note that not all gasket materials are compatible. Adhesives can be used on "paper type" or cork/rubber type gaskets. Cork-rubber gaskets, such as the Blue Stripe offered by Fel-Pro, combine the benefits of cork and rubber. Cork, known for its high compressibility and flexibility, enhances the sealing capabilities of the gasket. Rubber, on the other hand, provides superior resistance to oils, fuels, and greases. When combined, these materials offer a highly effective solution for sealing and vibration isolation.

Cork-rubber gasket sheets are produced by combining cork granules with selected rubber. This combination results in a material that is flexible, mechanically resistant, and impervious to oils, fuels, greases, gases, and various other chemicals. The ratio of cork to rubber is typically 70:30, ensuring optimal performance. The rubber component provides sealing capabilities and chemical compatibility while also resisting fungus, acid, and weather conditions.

Adhesives play a crucial role in the installation of cork-rubber gaskets. Pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) backing is commonly available for cork-rubber gasket materials. This adhesive backing facilitates a strong bond, ensuring the gasket remains securely in place. It is important to note that while adhesives can enhance the installation process, their overuse can lead to potential issues. Excess adhesive can find its way into the crankcase and oil galleys, resulting in engine damage. Therefore, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and exercise caution when applying adhesives.

Torque limiters prevent over-compression of the gasket

Torque limiters are an essential component of gasket installation, particularly when dealing with Fel-Pro's one-piece oil pan gasket. The torque limiters serve a critical function by preventing the over-compression of the gasket, which can lead to gasket deformation and damage.

Over-compression of a gasket can occur when connections are not perfectly aligned, which is often the case in real-world scenarios. This misalignment results in uneven forces being applied to the gasket, with the bottom side experiencing significantly more compression than the top. Consequently, gasket material may be pushed inside the tubing, creating a ridge that negatively affects the system's performance. The ridge reduces flow capacity and provides a surface for solid material buildup, which can cause blockages over time.

Fel-Pro's one-piece oil pan gasket is designed with torque limiters to address this issue and ensure the gasket is not over-compressed. By limiting the torque applied during installation, the torque limiters maintain the integrity of the gasket and prevent deformation of its sealing surfaces. This feature is especially important for ensuring the long-term performance and reliability of the gasket.

Additionally, the torque limiters work in conjunction with Fel-Pro's innovative Oil Pan SnapUps. These SnapUps simplify the gasket installation process by holding the gasket in place, allowing for quick bolt installation without the need for adhesives. The combination of torque limiters and SnapUps not only ensures a secure and accurate fit but also speeds up the installation process, making it more efficient and convenient.

By incorporating torque limiters into the design of the one-piece oil pan gasket, Fel-Pro provides a solution that prevents over-compression and its associated issues. This feature underscores Fel-Pro's commitment to providing reliable and user-friendly gasket solutions, making the installation process smoother and reducing the likelihood of costly repairs due to gasket failure.

Oil pan SnapUps® speed up the installation process

Installing an oil pan gasket can be a challenging task, especially when the engine is still in the vehicle. The process often requires three hands: two to hold the gasket and oil pan in alignment and one to start the bolt. This is where Fel-Pro's Oil Pan SnapUps® come in.

Oil Pan SnapUps® are innovative installation aids that simplify the process of replacing an oil pan gasket. They eliminate the need for an extra pair of hands by holding the gasket and oil pan in the correct position, allowing for easy bolt installation. This not only speeds up the installation process but also ensures proper alignment.

To use Oil Pan SnapUps®, simply thread them into the block where the oil pan bolts go. Then, snap the gasket into place, followed by the oil pan itself. Finally, start threading the bolts in. Once the oil pan is securely in place, the SnapUps® can be easily removed and reused for future installations.

Oil Pan SnapUps® are included with all PermaDryPlus® and most PermaDry® oil pan gasket sets, but they can also be purchased separately. They come in three different sizes and are an excellent addition to any toolbox due to their time-saving capabilities and compact size.

With Fel-Pro's Oil Pan SnapUps®, you can transform a challenging oil pan gasket installation into a quick and hassle-free task.

Frequently asked questions