Cutting rubber sump end seals

[Tom and Maria]

Hello,
First post here, although you've all been an invaluable source of information, thank you.

Please can someone tell me how much I should chop back rubber sump end seals, I know it needs to be less than cork but not sure how much and can't find any measurements on here.

Also, am I right in thinking blue hylomar is the sealant of choice (if any)?

Thanks in advance.

Tom

[bmcecosse]

I have only ever used the cork seals - don't see the need to go for rubber? I would leave them 1/8" proud at each side....... And why use any sealant? BMC didn't when they built the engine.......

[aupickup]

manual recomends grease for cork half moon seals
rubber ones nothing

[Declan_Burns]

Tom,
Flush or no more than 0.5mm as there is a metal wire in those seals which needs filing back. I used high temperature silicon sealant but have had a recent case where the person concerned used Hylomar with apparent sucess.
Regards
Declan

[bmcecosse]

Cork works fine if done correctly! This is a simple fixed seal around a semi-circle, I don't understand how it is made out to be so difficult !!

[Declan_Burns]

Cork works fine if done correctly! This is a simple fixed seal around a semi-circle, I don't understand how it is made out to be so difficult !!

Maybe in the past-it's probably even repro-cork nowadays!
Regards
Declan

[PSL184]

I did one just last week with cork (never had any problems and I've done a few over the years). I always soak the cork in water first so it swells up, then trim so it stands 1/8 to 1/4" proud either side. Then coat in grease, apply to sump and evenly tighten the bolts to 18 lb/ft (or just nipped up hand tight). I've no problem with people choosing the rubber option but not seen the need myself.....