Sealing a BB Intake Manifold - Help

[74bigblock]

Should I use the gaskets in the front and rear or Silicone? I'm installing an aluminum intake on a cast iron block. Parts will arrive on Friday!!!!!

Your thoughts???

Thanks,
Dave

 

[vette-dude]

I use silicone, the high temp kind that is an orangish color. Others probably use black but I don't recommend the blue stuff. I quit using the rubber gskts years ago.

Randy

 

[74bigblock]

Here's the mock up of the new manifold... I ordered an Endurashine Performer 2.0 instead of using this cruddy cast one in the picture.

 

[JohnZ]

I use Permatex Ultra-Copper RTV (almost matches Chevy orange); make sure you throroughly clean the mating front and rear surfaces on both the block and the bottom of the intake first (lacquer thinner, brake cleaner, etc.) so you get good adhesion.

 

[RodsnRides]

I will add that I like to use a bit of Permatex #2 on the bolt threads-the ones that are exposed to the lifter valley. Keeps oil from creeping up and leaving a mess on your nice intake. Not so important with polished intakes, but cast aluminum will stain.

I also use 12-point stainless bolts, if I'm not concerned with originality/markings. Makes it easier to get in and around for the occassional re-torque.

I also use Fel-Pro "stock and mild race" (1204/1404 for SBC) gaskets and put a bit of sealer on my fingers and lightly "wick" around the coolant passages, leaving a very slight "peach fuzz" around the surface of the gasket. And I lightly grease the distributor gasket so it seals and stays pliable for timing adjustments. Overkill? I think not! Many cars, and many intakes-I think I have it down pretty good.

Rick

 

[Paranoid]

I used Permatex #2.

 

[lightingrod]

I use Permatex Ultra-Copper RTV (almost matches Chevy orange); make sure you throroughly clean the mating front and rear surfaces on both the block and the bottom of the intake first (lacquer thinner, brake cleaner, etc.) so you get good adhesion.

As stated by JohnZ "CLEAN!"

Al

 

[74bigblock]

It's sealed (I hope)! Did it last night. Gonna wait til Sunday morning to fire her up... let that stuff set up real nice.