Does "Gasket Maker" actually make gaskets, eliminating the need to use real ones?

Question

I need to replace my valve cover gasket because its leaking oil, and I have some of the high temp gasket maker (in the red tube).

I'm wondering though, is this merely a gasket dressing, or does it actually "make" a gasket, eliminating the need to buy a $30 gasket from the part store?

Answer 1

It dries to make a rubbery piece of the thickness you want. If you go around carefully avoiding the holes and the bolts you will have a gasket surface everywhere you need it between the two parts. It will not look like the store-bought one but it will act as a gasket.

Clean the surface you will apply it to, including getting off all of the old gasket. Apply it over the path you need in one pass. Don't skip an area and then try to go back later.

Answer 2

Your metal parts need to be as straight as possible, and clean. The gasket maker just fills in the uneven areas to "seal" the covers. Don't over tighten the metal.
Mechanic's note:
I have seen problems with rockers hitting the covers and causing damage. Gaskets are preferred for proper clearance, again, do not over tighten. Best procedure is to glue the gasket in place on the cover and let dry. do not use sealer on the gasket to engine.

Answer 3

Y!A is a different kind of internet group, and I don't know if I'll meet any of you in person. But I'm part of the Gay Christian Network, have met many of my online friends there in real life, and they were pretty much exactly how they portrayed themselves. I think that was true because of shared values, faith and experience. So in that case, guys I met at a GCN Convention were much as I thought they might be, and online friendships have become IRL friendships. People on Y!A, on the other hand, are a mixed bag. Some people I don't think even exist except in trolldom. One person I thought I knew disappeared suddenly. And others seem real and genuine. I think the "Question - Answer" format does not lend itself to forming true community. That just isn't the stated purpose of Y!A. And I echo Enno's concern about younger people meeting folk from online. They should always have a parent or protector with them to make sure they don't meet someone dangerous. Overall, I think online friendships could become a springboard toward real-life friendships. In some cases that works, in other cases, not.

Answer 4

If you use enough of it it will make a gasket, I would use a cork or rubber gasket from the store though, just to be on the safe side.....also make sure there is none of the old gasket left on either of the surfaces use sandpaper to get it off, or a scraper but don't gouge it.

Answer 5

I suggest buying the gasket. Unless you are well experienced in making gaskets it can be difficult. If you don't get it right the first time it could end up costing you more in the long run.

Answer 6

well if u read the side of the tube or the box it should tell u, but its better to just get the gasket so if it dosent work u can put the bought one on

Answer 7

Sort of. It helps make hard or impossible gaskets to find. It works o.k. I don't recommend it for a thermostat however.

Answer 8

you better purchase a gasket too , mr.gasket is only a sealant and you need more than that or you'll be redoing it over again in a couple of months

Answer 9

dont waste your time,as a lifetime mechanic,its not worth the effort,just do the right thing and but the right gaskets.

Answer 10

It works for that.