Sealer 4 machined alum. surfaces?
 

Okay, I've got my car nearly all back together. And before I've even started it I see that there is fluid seeping from the joint in my TR-3550 where the tailshaft housing meets the main housing. When I assembled it I spread a light coating of Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket on the mating surfaces, as it "seemed" like the proper application.

Is there a better sealer for machined aluminum surfaces? Since the stupid G.M. fluid Tremec recommends is over $10.00 per quart, I don't want to be donating it as road sealer. I'd rather fix this problem now if anyone has better ideas.

Thanks more, Tom

I believe Loctite makes a product to seal flange type assemblies.

Roscoe

Roscoe, you're right on...

Loctite makes a whole series of gasketing compound. The one I think is most popular is 515. It's anaerobic, which means you don't get hardened globs inside the trans like silicone will do.

You can probably pick some up at a local bearing supply house or online. You can also do some research at www.loctite.com

The permatex should have sealed it though... you sure all bolts are tight and the faces were flat with no burrs, nicks, etc?

Yep. That's what has me puzzled. I've used the same thing on other applications in the past and it sealed up just fine. I guess I'll hit the parts houses tomorrow and try to find the Loctite stuff. I HATE the thought of dropping the transmission again, but I know that the leak will drive me crazy if I don't.

Thanks for the replies, Tom

Some of the the new machining processes used for aluminum surfaces create such a smooth surface that the OEM manufactures created new sealers for them. It also helps seal with the different expansion rates of the metals and even plastics in some applications. Previously, gaskets were often used but now just the sealant is often all that is required. Toyota, and some of the others Manufacturers offer a (similar) branded sealant. Toyota's product is gray and has some sort (?) of material mixed in it to give it some body unlike regular Silicone. It is somewhat like a paste and is sold in a tube. It is used most commonly by (Toyota) between their accurately machined aluminum surfaces in transmissions and some engine applications.

I was converted to a product call "The Right Stuff", made by Permatex. It comes in an aerosol can with a nosel on the top, much like a small shaving cream can. It is black and also has some body to it much like a semi vulcanized rubber, it does not squeeze out like silicone. It's a little pricey but the end result ustifies the price in my opinion. I use it for oil pan gaskets (with the gasket), front cover, intake manifold joints also cast iron transmissions and everthing else on my engine at this time. It has essentially replaced Silicone for me, and the best part is there are " No Leaks."


Here is a direct link and description

http://www.permatex.com/products/pro...&item_no=33694


Rick

Okay guys,
Where in the heck are you buying your anaerobic sealers? I've researched the heck out of this and found that the "best" sealer would be Loctite #5205, with a better all-purpose being #518. I've burned a tank of gas going to every auto parts store I could find in four counties looking for it, or anything at all that calls itself an anaerobic flange sealer.

Is there someplace online that y'all can suggest for loctite, permatex, or similar products?

Thanks, Tom

Tom,
There is this thing called 'The Internet' which gives you access to many sources of products, some within your area. Ordering over 'The Internet' can be very easy and cost effective. There is also a company called 'UPS' can deliver to you in a day or so.
Roscoe

Well, thank you Roscoe for all your help. I spent about three hours on "The Internet" last night trying to find a source for these sealers. I had assumed that someone here has used "The Internet" to order them and could possibly be helpful by giving me the name of an "Internet" source from which I could order some. Hence my question about an "online" source.

OK...OK...here is a source for the permatex equivilant

http://www.pegasusautoracing.com/Pro...asp?RecId=1029

Permatex Anaerobic Flange Sealant (Loctite 515) 50ml $13.95

Create flexible formed-in-place gaskets of any size and shape on close-fitting machined surfaces, gaskets that seal far more reliably than conventional pre-cut gaskets. Contains no solvent and will not shrink, drip or migrate. Does not cure until after confinement between mating surfaces and once cured it is impervious to attack by any conventional solvent, fuel or oil. May be sold in Permatex or Loctite packaging (same compound). 50 ml tube.


If you need more sources let me know........

Roscoe

Now THAT'S what I needed.

Thank you.

And get their catalog. They have great stuff.

Roscoe