Alternatives for Perfect Seal?

[slydog75]

The Mercruiser Service Manual says to use Perfect Seal on the manifold gaskets. However, our local dealer only sells it by the 5 gallon drum or something ridiculous. What can we use instead? Preferably something I can just go buy at the autoparts store.

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Alternatives for Perfect Seal?

"Permatex Aviation Liquid Sealant"Most good auto stores have it or can get it
I use it for everything

 

[slydog75]

Re: Alternatives for Perfect Seal?

Are you talking about the gasket between the block and manifold, or between the manifold and riser?

Honestly, I do not use a sealant on either.

Between the block and the manifold (for intake and exhaust). This is on a 470 so there's presurized coolant running through there as well. Don't want that sucker leaking.

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Alternatives for Perfect Seal?

There is no coolant transfer between the intake(stbd side) and the head, there is no transfer between the head and the exaust manifold(port side)
So, what part are we installing? The riser to exaust manifold?

 

[slydog75]

Re: Alternatives for Perfect Seal?

There is no coolant transfer between the intake(stbd side) and the head, there is no transfer between the head and the exaust manifold(port side)
So, what part are we installing? The riser to exaust manifold?

Interesting, I assumed there was, but looking at the flow diagram you're right. All coolant flowing from the block/head too the exhaust manifold is via hoses. The previous owner thought it might be a bad exhaust manifold gasket causing my coolant leak problem so I just assumed coolant pased through that gasket.

I currently have both manifolds off anyway because I needed to change out the head gasket.

 

[skargo]

Re: Alternatives for Perfect Seal?

I bought the 16oz size perfect seal at a local chandlery, maybe try another place?