Instant gasket is a liquid or paste-like sealant used to create a gasket directly between two mating surfaces. In automotive work, it is commonly used on components such as oil pans, timing covers, valve covers, water pumps and transmission housings where the manufacturer specifies a formed-in-place seal. (Dow)
It is often referred to as RTV gasket maker because many formulations cure at room temperature and form a flexible rubber seal.
What Does Instant Gasket Do?
Instant gasket fills small imperfections between mating surfaces and creates a barrier that helps prevent fluids from leaking.
Depending on the formulation, automotive gasket makers can be designed to resist engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, heat and vibration. The correct product still needs to be selected for the particular application.
Where Is Instant Gasket Used?
Common automotive applications include:
- Oil pans and sumps
- Timing covers
- Valve covers
- Water pumps
- Thermostat housings
- Transmission pans
- Differential covers
- Engine covers
- Some gearbox housings
Some manufacturers specifically design instant gasket products for automotive powertrain sealing applications. (Dow)
Can Instant Gasket Replace a Normal Gasket?
Sometimes, but not always.
Some engine components are designed to use RTV or another formed-in-place sealant instead of a pre-cut gasket. Other components require a specific gasket.
Do not automatically replace a paper, rubber or metal gasket with instant gasket. Check the vehicle’s service instructions first.
For some applications, RTV is only intended to supplement a conventional gasket at specific corners or joints rather than cover the entire gasket. (Fel-Pro)
How to Apply Instant Gasket
Proper surface preparation is important.
A typical application involves:
- Remove the old gasket or sealant.
- Clean both mating surfaces thoroughly.
- Make sure the surfaces are dry and free from oil, grease and dirt.
- Apply the recommended bead of sealant.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for bead size and assembly time.
- Carefully join the two surfaces.
- Tighten the bolts according to the manufacturer’s recommended sequence and torque.
- Allow the sealant to cure for the specified period before introducing fluids or operating the vehicle.
Exact application and curing times vary between products, so follow the instructions on the specific tube.
Do Not Use Too Much
More sealant does not necessarily mean a better seal.
Applying an excessively thick bead can cause sealant to squeeze into the inside of the engine or other component. Loose pieces can potentially interfere with passages or components.
Use the recommended amount and keep the application neat.
Instant Gasket for Oil Leaks
Instant gasket can be useful when the sealing surface is designed for a formed-in-place seal and an oil leak is coming from that joint.
However, it should not simply be smeared over the outside of an existing leak and treated as a permanent repair. The joint normally needs to be disassembled, cleaned and resealed properly.
If an engine continues losing oil after resealing, the actual source of the leak should be diagnosed.
Choosing the Right Instant Gasket
Different gasket makers have different temperature, chemical-resistance and curing characteristics.
Before buying, check whether the product is suitable for:
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Transmission fluid
- High temperatures
- The materials being joined
- Sensors and electrical components, where relevant
Do not choose a product based only on its colour. Different manufacturers use different formulations and colour systems.
High-Temperature Instant Gasket
High-temperature gasket makers are designed for applications where ordinary sealants may not withstand the operating conditions.
However, high temperature does not mean that the product is suitable for every engine component. Check the manufacturer’s temperature rating and intended applications before using it.
Some automotive RTV products are specifically designed for oil pans, timing covers and other engine components, while specialised products may be required for more demanding applications. (Dow)
Instant Gasket vs Head Gasket
An instant gasket should not be treated as a replacement for an engine head gasket unless the engine manufacturer specifically designs that joint for a formed-in-place seal.
Cylinder-head joints deal with combustion pressure and require a purpose-designed sealing system. Using the wrong sealant can lead to serious engine problems.
Common Mistakes
Avoid these mistakes when using instant gasket:
- Applying it to dirty surfaces
- Using an excessively thick bead
- Mixing incompatible sealants
- Using the wrong formulation
- Ignoring the manufacturer’s curing instructions
- Reusing damaged gaskets
- Applying RTV over an entire gasket when only specific areas require it
- Starting the engine before the sealant has properly cured
Correct preparation is just as important as the sealant itself.
Instant Gasket for Nigerian Vehicle Maintenance
Instant gasket can be useful for routine repairs, particularly when maintaining vehicles that experience heavy traffic, long journeys and frequent stop-start driving.
Keep the product stored properly and check its condition before use. If you are dealing with an important engine or transmission repair, make sure the mechanic uses the correct sealant for your particular vehicle rather than choosing a product simply because it is available.
Is Instant Gasket Worth Keeping in a Workshop?
For a home mechanic, garage or professional workshop, a suitable automotive gasket maker can be a useful addition to the tool cabinet.
The important thing is to use it for applications where the manufacturer allows it. It is a sealing product, not a universal substitute for every type of gasket.
Prepare Your Car Before Travelling With Travo.ng
Before a long journey, check for oil or coolant leaks, inspect fluid levels and pay attention to any unusual engine symptoms.
If your vehicle needs mechanical repairs before travelling, deal with leaks properly rather than relying on temporary external sealants.
Travo.ng can help with relevant travel, vehicle hire, airport pickup and logistics arrangements while you get your vehicle ready for the road.
