Best Sealants for Oil Pan Leaks - Need Your Recommendations!

Technical Discussions
1

I’ve been dealing with an annoying oil pan leak on my car and I’m looking for advice on the best sealants to use. I’ve seen some recommendations for products like Permatex, but I’m not sure if there’s a more effective option out there or if I can just use any general sealant.

Here’s what I’ve tried so far:

  • Temporary Fix: I’ve used some RTV gasket maker, but it seems to only hold up for a short time.
  • Leak Location: The leak is coming from an old weld that’s starting to break down, so a permanent solution would be ideal.

Questions I’ve got:

  1. What sealants have worked for you in fixing oil pan leaks?
  2. How do I properly apply the sealant for the best results?
  3. Are there any tips for preparing the surface before applying the sealant?

I appreciate any insights or experiences you can share. Looking to tackle this soon so any help would be great!

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2

Hey everyone! I’m looking for some recommendations on sealants for oil pan leaks. I’ve heard both silicone-based and epoxy options are good, but I’m unsure. Any thoughts?

3

I recently used a silicone-based sealant and it worked wonders! It’s flexible and handles temperature changes well. Just make sure it’s oil-resistant.

4

Silicone-based sealants are definitely popular. However, epoxy provides a strong bond and is perfect for larger gaps. Just make sure to clean the surface well before applying!

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5

I agree, epoxy is tough! But I found it to be a bit rigid for some applications. Sometimes, rubberized sealants are better for flexibility in high-vibration areas.

6

I’ve used a rubberized sealant before and it held up nicely. Its flexibility really helped in my older car! Just be aware it can take longer to cure.

7

That’s a great point! Do rubberized sealants tend to break down under extreme heat, though?

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8

In my experience, they’re quite resilient. But yeah, extreme heat can weaken them over time. A good way to prolong their life is to ensure proper engine cooling.

9

Also true, but I find it quite messy! Has anyone tried those quick-drying rubber sealants?

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10

I haven’t used the quick-drying ones yet, but I’ve heard mixed reviews. Some love them, while others say they don’t hold up as well.

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11

I gave one a shot, and it worked, but I wouldn’t recommend it for a long-term fix. Just my two cents!

12

If you want something reliable and long-lasting, silicone or epoxy is still the way to go! Just remember, prep work is key no matter which you choose.

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13

For sure! Great prep makes any sealant application easier, but I still think there’s a time for each type. It really does depend on the specific leak!

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14

I’ve always been partial to silicone-based sealants. They’re versatile, but I’d love to hear more experiences with other types.

15

You’ll get mixed feedback! Some swear by rubberized sealants while others think epoxy is the best for long-term repairs.

16

Honestly, the only sealant I’ve used is the silicone-based type. It’s easy to work with, and I appreciate its versatility, though it was a pain to clean off the old stuff!

17

Glad to hear a positive review! What’s everyone’s view on the longevity of silicone compared to rubberized options?

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18

I’ve had good luck with RTV silicone sealant for oil pan leaks. Just make sure to clean the surface properly before applying it, and it cures solid. Happy sealing!

19

What do you think about using a gasket instead? I’ve heard it can be more reliable than sealants.

20

Definitely prepare the surface well! I always use a scraper and some solvent before applying. Ensuring a clean surface is key.