Inlet Manifold Gasket Sealant

[Dom]

Hi everyone,

A few weeks ago the inlet manifold gaskets gave way and spewed hot water everywhere. I changed them and all was well, save for a small leak into the vee (arghhh).

I had thought it may have been the water pump gasket but have just nipped the bolts on the thermostat housing to find the bolt is spinning and causing the leak there.
I cant drive now until its all repaired, as the seal has gone altogether.

Anyway, I have a new inlet manifold and set of gaskets on the way for changeover in the week.
Last time I changed the gaskets between the manifold and the heads, I used red sealant (high temp). As I said, all seemed to have worked well. If only I had checked the bolts to the thermo inlet at the same time hey!!

My questions are these;

1. Is red sealant okay to use between manifold and heads or do you guys use anything in particular?
2. Shall I use red or blue sealant with the thermostat inlet gasket?
3. Shall I use red or blue sealant for the water pump housing gasket?

Just want to make sure this is the last time I have to pull it apart for a while and that Im using the absolute best/long lasting methods.

Thanks in anticipation.
Dom

[staginhiding]

Hi Dom

I have used Wellseal for a long time now and it works well for me.Not too thick and remains tacky..

Tried most of the others over the years and always go back to Wellseal..

Can only speak as I find,hope that helps

Sam

[Arbman Al]

I was going to recommend the same as it is aptly named Stag wellseal!

Could you not helicoil the bolt hole instead of replacing the whole inlet manifold? It can be done in situ with a cheap right angle adapter for your drill.

Al

[jleyton]

Could you not helicoil the bolt hole instead of replacing the whole inlet manifold? It can be done in situ with a cheap right angle adapter for your drill.
Al

I was just going to say that as well !

I did it in place on mine like that a couple of years ago and all went well. Much easier than pulling off the manifold again

Good luck. Cheers

Julian

[Dom]

Thanks guys,
I'll give it a go.
As for the manifold, it had to come off to replace the water pump gasket anyway. I should have done this last time but it was a roadside repair on the inlet manifold to get home.
As it happens, I have a new inlet manifold already to go on so i'm not going to need to helicoil the unit, thankfully.
All come to a standstill again now anyway, removed 2 of the water pump cover bolts and the third sheered off! Im way to scared to start drilling that one out so waiting for some professional help to pop around this week.
Given me a chance to look at the carbs whilst they are off, desperate need for needle valves and float gaskets....so not a completely wasted morning.
Thanks for the tips.
Dom