Sump Gaskets

Post by **wanderinstar** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 7:34 pm

Am progressing nicely with engine rebuild, but I have a question. Wonder if someone can help me out.In the gasket kit I have there are 2 pieces of cork, about 5/8" x 1/4" x 5". Which way do they go in ? If I try them in narrow ways there seems to be some play at the sides, But to try put them in wide ways it would seem like trying to get a quart in a pint pot. Also, do I cut them off flush with sides of sump or leave some upstand?

Post by **PSL184** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 7:42 pm

Soak the cork pieces in water first (or oil if your're worried about water in the sump). Put them in narrow ways and leave about 1/8" sticking out each side. When you tighten down the sump they spread to fill the gaps.... Never had one leak on me yet!

Post by **bmcecosse** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 9:14 pm

Certainly wouldn't use water - in fact I always just put them in dry. 1/4" seems quite narrow - but if it's only a little play at the sides - it will swell out to take the gap.

Post by **PSL184** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 11:17 pm

The water soon drys out - it just makes tham more pliable whilst they fill the gap.... Oil works just as well if your're worried about the water but in reality it ain't a problem....