TA-31 and FE oil pan questions

[Tim7139]

Originally Posted by lippy

But if I check them and they are all loose 1/8 of a turn, then I have to tighten them back to spec torque, right? That is what is happening. I checked the torque 4-5 times and each time they had loosened. I fear that if I just leave them I will develop leaks.

I think the issue is that you are probably a little light on the initial torque. This is where the feel part comes in. Initially as you tighten, if you used proper amount( remember it's real easy to overdo this) you tighten until you just see it begin to extrude out the edge.
A major issue with this stuff is the propensity to use too much. A nice continuous bead about 1/4" is about right. This and a slight smear around any stud holes so there's no voids.
I believe the major reason for nuts backing off may be excess material leading to the pan moving slightly or vibrating, etc.
I also pull all the studs, clean them with brake cleaner and put them back so you nut them on nice clean dry studs.
This is what I've learned in working with this stuff on cars and high vibration vintage motorcycles.