Do cork oil pan gaskets need sealer?

Answer 1

I've used cork oil pan gaskets on numerous ocassions but have only had too use a gasket sealant once or twice due to irregularities in the gasket or warping of the pan. If your pan hasn't warped and the gasket is normal, then all that's really needed is a thin coat of new motor oil on both faces of the gasket in order to help it initially seat.

When you drive the vehicle the gasket swells and attempts to conform to the pan lip and bottom of the engine block, hence providing the seal.

After driving the car for a day or two, however, you may need to go back under and retighten a few pan bolts - its a fairly common thing to happen and is nothing to really worry about, just be sure to not "overtighten" the bolts or you will ruin the new gasket.

FYI - the same process and suggestions are recommended for transmission pans as well (using Transmission Fluid, of course).