<VV> Oil Pan questions...

[Padgett]

>However, in most cases,  a stock gasket on a
>properly cleaned surface with smooth, flat, even surfaces provides sealing.

A flat pan is essential for sealing and they often get dimpled at the bolt 
holes. If at all irregular it needs to be flattened (what a ball peen 
hammer and a block of wood are for). I also coat gasket surfaces with a 
light application of white grease or wheel bearing grease if no white is 
available just to soften the surface a little. I keep a tube of #2 Permatex 
around but like RTV, I only use if nothing else works. I generally use RTV 
more as glue or a hole filler if JBWeld is not necessary.

Surface preparation is the key to any seal and cleanliness is right at the 
top, is why I usually take a couple of hours on a 3800 water pump rather 
than just slapping one on. Of course I never plan to sell any of my cars, 
it just happens occasionally.

Of course I can take the time to adjust the metal properly rather than 
needing to get the job out the door as quickly as possible, am too slow to 
ever make it professionally.

Padgett