Applying RTV Sealer

• Do not use the room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) sealant in areas where extreme temperatures are expected. These areas include the following locations:
  • The exhaust manifold
  • The head gasket
  • The other surfaces where gasket eliminator is specified
• Use a rubber mallet in order to separate the components sealed with RTV sealant. Bump the part sideways in order to shear the RTV sealer. Perform the bumping at the bends or the reinforced areas in order to prevent distortion of the components. The RTV sealant is weaker in shear (lateral) strength than in tensile (vertical) strength.
IMPORTANT: Do not use any other method or technique in order to remove the gasket material from a component.
• Do not use the following items in order to clean the gasket surfaces:
  • Abrasive pads
  • Sand Paper
  • Power tools

These methods of cleaning may damage the part.

Abrasive pads also produce a fine grit that the oil filter cannot remove from the oil. This grit is abrasive and may cause internal engine damage.

• Remove all of the gasket material from the component using a plastic or a wood scraper. Use Loctite® brand gasket remover P/N 4MA or the equivalent. Follow all of the safety recommendations and the directions that are on the container.
  IMPORTANT: Do not allow the sealer to enter the blind threaded holes. The sealer may cause the following conditions:
  • Prevent you from properly seating the bolt
  • Cause damage when you tighten the bolt
• Apply the RTV sealant to a clean surface. Use a bead size as specified in the procedure. Apply the bead to the inside of any bolt holes.
• Assemble the components while the RTV sealant is still wet (within 3 minutes). Do not wait for the RTV sealant to skin over.
IMPORTANT: Do not overtighten the bolts.
• Tighten the bolts to specifications.