GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Gasket Reuse and Applying Sealant

    • Do not reuse any gasket unless specified.
    • Gaskets that can be reused will be identified in the service procedure.
    • Do not apply sealant to any gasket or sealing surface unless specified in the service procedure.

Separating Components

    • Use a rubber mallet in order to separate the components.
    • Bump the part sideways in order to loosen the components.
    • Bumping of the component should be done at bends or reinforced areas of the component to prevent distortion of the components.

Cleaning Gasket Surfaces

    • Use care to avoid gouging or scraping the sealing surfaces.
    • Use a plastic or wood scraper in order to remove all the sealant from the components.
    • Do not use any other method or technique to remove the sealant or the gasket material from a part.
    • Do not use abrasive pads, sand paper, or power tools to clean the gasket surfaces.
       - These methods of cleaning can cause damage to the component sealing surfaces.
       - Abrasive pads also produce a fine grit that the oil filter cannot remove from the engine oil.
       - This fine grit is an abrasive and can cause internal engine damage.

Assembling Components

    • Assemble components using only the sealant (or equivalent) that is specified in the service procedure.
    • Sealing surfaces must be clean and free of debris or oil.
    • Specific components such as crankshaft oil seals or valve stem oil seals may require lubrication during assembly.
    • Components requiring lubrication will be identified in the service procedure.
    • Apply only the amount of sealant specified in the service procedure to a component.
    • Do not allow the sealant to enter into any blind threaded holes, as the sealant may prevent the fastener from clamping properly or cause component damage when tightened.

       Important: Do not overtighten the fasteners.

    • Tighten the fasteners to the proper specifications.