VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1937-1945 Replacing oil pan gasket

Working on a 1938 216 cu. in. engine. I have replaced my oil pan gasket twice and gasket is still leaking. The Gasket which Fel Pro is no longer making was a OS 5000 C. The first time I replaced gasket I cleaned the pan completely, hammered down the holes where the 7/16 and 3/8 bolts go though and used gray Delco Remy rtv on both side of the gasket. Removing the gasket with the Delco rtv was a quite a job. The second time I replaced the gasket I used the Permatex Avaiation sealent #80019. I'm going to order a gasket from the Filling Station and seeking advice in changing gasket. Please note replacing gasket with engine on car on my back. Thank you.

Where is oil leaking from, side, ends or corners?

Did you install the sides first and the the ends?

Leaking from corners. I installed the sides the gasket that goes around main bearing. With gaskets in place I added Permatex aviation form a gasket sealant liquid #80019

correction in spelling. Leaking from corners. I installed the side gaskets on engine, then the gasket that goes around main bearing. With gaskets in place I added Permatex aviation form a gasket sealant liquid #80019 on the entire gasket extra heavy on the corners.

This suggestion is not meant in any way to be insulting, but are you absolutely sure the oil is coming from the pan gasket? These engines are notorious for leaking oil at the back of the valve cover and having it seep down the block to drip off the edge of the oil pan. This can be checked by thoroughly cleaning the sides of the block and as much of the back of it that you can access, and run the engine.

I have checked the valve cover gaskets (all around) for leaks, none.
I have changed the push rod gaskets, not leaking from there.
The 1938 does not have a rear main seal but checked for leaks there, none
Cleaned the entire engine. replaced the pan gasket, leak is coming from the pan gasket.
My technique for changing the gasket is not working. Looking for a procedure on how to replace gasket.
Should I install the cork/rubber gasket dry and apply RTV only on corners where side gasket meets main bearing gasket? Or ???

Check out the 46-48 forum. There is a sticky thread (3rd down) with good advice on replacing this gasket.

Good luck

Dave

Your last suggestion s what I have used. Problem is the end corks were softer pure cork years ago and worked better. If it were mine a would try retightening the bolts every two weeks for a while.

I concur with Gene. Over the last 40 years I have installed the oil pan on my '40 numerous times and have never had a leak. I always held the side gaskets in place with chassis grease and did not use any sealant in the corners. Is it possible your pan is twisted or misaligned in some way? Although I think that should be obvious through visible inspection. The only thing that I do that might be different is that I use about three tightening trips around the bolts and screws - snug, medium and final tightening. Good luck.

I’m afraid my newly installed gasket will leak too. No confidence in this 4 part gasket, especially at the corners. Pray for me