Powerhead Base Gasket ??

[wannabfishing]

I am going to be swapping my powerhead soon and would like some clarification on the base gasket. The manual i have just states to put gasket down, then powerhead, no sealant or anything. I have read several threads regarding this and have seen mention to using a non-hardening sealant like merc perfect seal. Which is the better way of going about this? what is the general consensus and preference.

By the way i am swapping a 91 200 (old) with a 94 200 (new)

 

[Laddies]

Re: Powerhead Base Gasket ??

It's a simple as who is the most knowledgeable about Mercury Engines, Mercury Marine or some guy off the net. You chose!

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Powerhead Base Gasket ??

Sealant is typically used if a gasket is reused or if the surfaces are damaged. In most cases, sealant on a fresh gasket on good surfaces is unnecessary. It some cases, it can cause a gasket to fail by providing a bit of lubrication for the gasket to slide under internal pressure if the sealant doesn't setup first.

 

[emckelvy]

Re: Powerhead Base Gasket ??

Most of the gaskets you get from Merc have a special 'coating' on them and don't require sealer. You might use sealer if the gasket you have is plain 'paper' or 'fibrous' type with no coating on it.

Definitely 'paint' a thin layer of Permatex #3 Aviation-Type gasket dressing (or that Merc Sealer) on the powerhead studs/bolts. This'll keep them from ever siezing up.

Cheers.......ed