What is the best sealer to use on water pump gaskets?

[oz]

...I ask because I am getting ready to install a high flow pump on my '69 and the one that's on there leaks a little in cold weather even though I used blue silicone sealer on all gasket surfaces. I want to avoid this condition when I put on the new pump.
I think it's either more silicone or that black 'form-a-gasket' tar like sealer that never really gets completely hard.
Which would you chose?
THANKS!

 

[WORTH]

aviation permatex,

 

[SoCalCruising]

"The Right Stuff"

 

[oz]

Aviation Permatex... where would one find such a thing?

 

[ashford]

weatherstripping adheasive, form-a-gasket, high-tack, or engine paint. silicone in excess can cause more damage than you think.

 

[D.Hearne]

Permatex "Ultra Blue" or the older Black RTV. Both are similar in physical characteristics. Both work well on engine gaskets. This is not the Blue Silicone stuff that's used as a replacement for intake end gaskets, that's much like the plain clear window caulking.

 

[68stang351]

I've always used Permatex Ultra Blue myself. Never had a problem.

 

[2nd Mustang]

I use Permatex Hylomar HPF gasket dressing on one side of the gasket only, to help hold it in place during installation. It's designed to stay pliable so disassembly is easier. It's been 5 years since I installed my NEW (not rebuilt) water pump and no leaks. I also used it on the thermostat housing and valve covers. It's available at most parts stores.

As stated before, silicone RTV will cause problems, such as gasket slipping while tightening.

 

[LUCAFU1]

I've always used Permatex Ultra Blue myself. Never had a problem.

+1

 

[oz]

Thanks for the replies.

It was a rebuilt pump that I put on last time and the backing plate wasn't in perfect condition. I usually use 'Ultra Blue' and this is the first time I've had a problem. Perhaps it's more a problem with the backing plate and less with the sealer I used.

THANKS AGAIN!

 

[yeloxr7]

I use Gasgacinch on all gaskets that require a sealer/adhesive and have never had a leak.

 

[65ShelbyClone]

+1 makes my vote four for blue RTV. Unless the sealing surfaces are all pitted and nasty, only a very thin layer is needed. any more and it will squeeze out into the cooling system.

 

[thehueypilot]

"The Right Stuff"

I agree!

 

[Tim65GT]

http://www.accessconnect.com/images/82180.jpg

 

[Swede958]

I've used ultra black, the blue, and permatex gasket/indian head gasket shellac. I like the actual shellac stuff (similar to aircraft adhesive) better because I find it easier to work with, and has less push out to clean up after.

Aviation adhesive can be found at a lot of autosupply places. Here in tx it's in o'reillys, a-line and vans. Check the smaller supply places.

 

[WORTH]

Aviation Permatex... where would one find such a thing?

I buy it right from carquest, I would assume any good parts store would have it. I don't like the silicone based stuff, it tends to end up stuck in the radiator and the heaters.

this is the stuff.

http://permatex.carshopinc.com/product_info.php/products_id/42270/80019

 

[xoxbxfx]

are you guys ditching the gasket alltogether and just using permatex?

 

[65ShelbyClone]

I use both; a layer of blue on each side of the gasket.

 

[SoCalCruising]

I suggeest The Right Stuff based on personal experience and a recommendation from mu cousin who is certified aircraft mechanic. He restores British cars for a living, including rebuilding the motors. If he can build a British motor that doesn't leak, I'm sold. Because of his training, I suspect he would use aviation sealers if he really thought they were better for his use. No flaming here, just adding to the data.

 

[rob289c]

I have used Permatex #2 for about 30 years and no leaks-ever. I use a thin layer on both sides of the gasket.