Valvebody Cover Gasket Information

This bulletin updates the service procedure for installation of the automatic transaxle valvebody cover gasket.

When installing the automatic transaxle valvebody cover gasket, apply a thin layer of Loctite 515 Gasket Eliminator Sealant (Saturn P/N 21005993) or equivalent, to both sides of the new gasket according to the procedures in this bulletin. The sealant helps prevent transaxle fluid weepage or leaks at the valvebody cover gasket.

Important: Loctite will be used in production on all automatic transaxle valvebody gaskets built after including VIN TZ156645. This Loctite will be red in color, and changing to a blue color as a running change during the 1996 model year.

Important: The following procedure is included in the "1996 Automatic Transaxle Service Manual."

1. Whenever the valvebody cover gasket is removed, clean transaxle case and valvebody cover sealing surfaces with Saturn Choke Brake Cleaner (P/N 21007127) or equivalent, applied with a clean shop towel. If necessary, use a gasket scraper to remove gasket from surfaces.



2. Remove plastic wrap from new valvebody cover gasket package, leaving valvebody cover gasket on cardboard.
3. Using the cardboard for a clean and dry surface, apply a thin layer of Loctite 515 Sealant (Saturn P/N 21005993) or equivalent to both sides of the valvebody cover gasket.
4. Align the valvebody cover gasket on the valvebody cover and install on the transaxle case.




Notice: When installing the valvebody cover, it is important to clean and lubricate fasteners with Saturn Transaxle Fluid, of sufficient clamp load of the gasket will not be achieved.

5. Lubricated fastener threads with Saturn Transaxle Fluid. Wipe off excessive fluid and install fasteners.
6. When installing the valvebody cover bolts, make sure to properly torque the valvebody cover bolts using the torque sequence shown.

Tighten
Tighten nut to 10 N·m (188 in lb)

7. Repeat the torque sequence performed in step 6 to make up for any gasket relaxation.