RTV SEALER/GASKET ELIMINATOR DESCRIPTION

MODELS: ALL

There are two sealers used to seal GM engines. The first is R.T.V. (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) which is used where a non-rigid part is assembled to a cast or rigid part such as rocker covers, oil pans, etc. The second is gasket eliminator, an anaerobic material (cures in the absence of air) which is used where two rigid parts are assembled together, such as timing case covers. When two rigid parts are disassembled and no gasket or sealer is readily noticeable it is sealed with gasket eliminator.

When assembling parts, use the correct material. Don't use R.T.V. on two rigid parts and don't use gasket eliminator on stamped parts such as rocker covers.

Directions for use of R.T.V.

1. Surfaces must be clean and dry. Remove all traces of oil and old gasket material. Clean with a chloronated solvent such as carb. spray cleaner. Don't use petroleum cleaners such as mineral spirits. They leave a film which R.T.V. won't stick to.

2. Cut the tube extension to approx. 1/8".

3. Apply R.T.V. to one of the clean surfaces. Circle all bolt holes.

4. Assemble while R.T.V. is still wet. Don't wait for R.T.V. to skin over (within 3 minutes).

5. Torque bolts to specs. Don't over torque.

6. R.T.V. will skin over in 15 minutes sufficient to allow for testing and operation of vehicle. No need to wait for R.T.V. to cure.

Don't use R.T.V. when extreme temperatures are expected, eg exhaust manifold, head gasket or where gasket eliminator is specified.

Directions for use of gasket eliminator:

1. Clean surfaces with a chlorinated solvent to remove all oil, grease and old material.

2. Apply a continuous bead of gasket eliminator to one flange.

3. Spread bead evenly with your finger to get a uniform coating on the complete flange.

4. Assemble parts in the normal mannner and torque to specs.

5. Vehicle can be operated after completion of assembly. No need to wait for gasket eliminator to cure.

Do not use gasket eliminator where R.T.V. is recommended. The key to satisfaction with R.T.V. and gasket eliminators is following the directions and using where specified. Do not cut the procedure short or a leak will result.

R.T.V.'s differ in performance. To assure good performance use only G.M.R.T.V. or equivalent. Known equivalent material is 3M T-3 (3M P/N 08660) Fel-Pro, Permatex R.T.V., and G.E. 1673.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.