Sump leak

[A900ss]

Hi,

My sump is leaking slightly at the rear but I notice that it doesn't have a spreader plate at the back.

I'm going to order and fit one but to ensure I do a good job, I'll replace the sump gasket at the same time.

Rimmer Bros sell the spreader plate so I'm thinking of to getting this gasket from them as well.

http://www.rimmerbros.co.uk/Item--i-AJM539

Any reasons why I shouldn't and there is a better gasket out there?

Thanks.

[Chuffmeister]

Loads of different opinions about this. I tried a spreader plate, but have taken it off. There are a few common approaches, the fibre gasket off ebay, liquid gasket (Loctite 5980/ Permatex etc) or a quality cork gasket with liquid gasket.

Just make sure you seal the front and back bolts when you replace the sump. Spend recommended using a few studs in place of the bolts, which will help alighnment when using liquid gasket.

Tbh, a good liquid gasket or a combination of that and good quality cork gaskey will work. Don't use copius quantities of cheap silicone though!;)

[caduceus]

Dirko-S is a good sealant. It's so good in fact, it's a fu**er to get off!

[phazed]

caduceus said:

Dirko-S is a good sealant. It's so good in fact, it's a fu**er to get off!

I've used this, great stuff but couldn't source at short notice last year so used Whynns black gasket maker instead.

A couple of TDs, a sprint and a drag day later and not a drop showing.

[A900ss]

Is a sealant necessary?

I was hoping just to fit a gasket and that would be it. I don't like the thought of a sealant greeting into the oil and oil pump.

[phazed]

Use just the sealant, no gasket.

Just ask for the method if you are going down that route.

[A900ss]

phazed said:

Use just the sealant, no gasket.

Just ask for the method if you are going down that route.

I've booked a ramp for Sunday so please tell.

Thanks

[TV8]

I can recommend the Phazed method. Probably best to have a second pair of hands to hold in place whilst the bolts are gently nipped up. There are a couple that need to be sealed differently as well but best that he explains that one!

[phazed]

Scrape and clean both surfaces super clean, finish off with a degreaser.
Use a bead of either DIRKO S, the Wynnes above or similar.
Smear it carefully over the flange and around the bolt holes, not too much keeping the sealant away from the inner edge.
If you haven't studs, use someone to hold the sump in position while you screw in the bolts.
Ensure the two front bolts under the timing cover have gasket sealant on the threads as these are open to the chest.
Screw up bolts but don't tighten.
Leave for a few hours then carefully nip up but again, not too tight.
Fill with oil and test.

[TV8]

Depending on where your ramp is booked, you get a lovely fry up included, plus materials.

[A900ss]

TV8 said:

Depending on where your ramp is booked, you get a lovely fry up included, plus materials.

I guess I'm not that lucky. I'll get someone to help me to use the lift and a very reasonable £10 per hour bill.

[Sardonicus]

A900ss said:

Is a sealant necessary?

I was hoping just to fit a gasket and that would be it. I don't like the thought of a sealant greeting into the oil and oil pump.

Most manufactures dont use gaskets now they use Phazed's method why because basically you have an oil tight seal for the life of the engine where as gaskets age be it rubber cork whatever, it wont end up in the pick up providing you apply as he says or your a tit

[latham91]

Just a thought on Phazed's method:

Presumably if the sump remains drained of oil for some time whilst the sealant goes off one should also pack the oil pump with vasoline to make sure it's primed ready for restarting the engine? or is this over cautious?

Ed

[phazed]

latham91 said:

Just a thought on Phazed's method:

Presumably if the sump remains drained of oil for some time whilst the sealant goes off one should also pack the oil pump with vasoline to make sure it's primed ready for restarting the engine? or is this over cautious?

Ed

Not necessary on a serp engine but pre serps can be problematic!

Always fill the oil filter before fitting it helps.

[Sardonicus]

latham91 said:

Just a thought on Phazed's method:

Presumably if the sump remains drained of oil for some time whilst the sealant goes off one should also pack the oil pump with vasoline to make sure it's primed ready for restarting the engine? or is this over cautious?

Ed

Some have reported serp pump drain out over very long periods (although I have never spoken to one) simple fix bag the oil pick up with one of those fridge fresh bags and secure with a cable tie round the pipe till your ready to re-sump