Alternates to OMC motor sealants - If Any??

[calboats]

In replacing the head gasket on my Evinrude 48 ESLCUS - 1987, twin cyl. I see that my book calls for Gel Seal 2, Gel Seal Gasket Remover, and Cleaning Solvent -- all by OMC of course. My local marine place is reeeal expensive on this stuff, 20 miles out, and sells it in way larger quanities than I would need.

Is there a reasonable alternate, a good Permatex type of tube stuff, and a commonly available cleaner for this that might be easier or even better to use? Or maybe there is a reason for the factory stuff, but I don't know that.

Thanks Again, Appreciate the help, Cal

PS --- I just noticed that the post that the factory manuals are better than Clymers, or Seloc, HUH !! never knew that before. Guess I had better get looking, but I had always got the other two, and cross checked them before starting on any job.

 

[clanton]

Re: Alternates to OMC motor sealants - If Any??

Do not use sealer on headgasket.

 

[calboats]

Re: Alternates to OMC motor sealants - If Any??

Thank you, some info. is not as clear in the book. I might also ask if it is preferable to remove the head without taking apart the water jacket cover first?? Remove all bolts and pull the whole head assembly as a piece, maybe??

I have the outer water jacket gasket coming also, but taking that thermostat cover off after just checking and replacing the valve etc., if I don't have to, would be just a bit easier.

Thanks Again, Cal

 

[Daviet]

Re: Alternates to OMC motor sealants - If Any??

I don't remove the cover gasket unless it is leaking, remove the head with cover installed.

 

[clanton]

Re: Alternates to OMC motor sealants - If Any??

Head should come off without removing the water cover. I use a razor scraper to remove old head gasket. Aviation permatex, the can that has a brush, in place of gasket sealer. Use on water cover gasket.

 

[calboats]

Re: Alternates to OMC motor sealants - If Any??

Many thanks, hadn't thought of Aviation Permatex, but that sounds like the right stuff. Not on head gasket, got that, but just get the needed surfaces clean without scratching. Saves a lot of time on the water jacket, not having to redo that.

The book shows putting the head on plate glass, making sure of no warpage, and having a couple grades of fine emory cloth to make sure before replacing. That sounds like a fair idea, and insures that clean metal gets the gasket. No sealer, or emorying on the (well cleaned) block of course, dragons live there for the unwary.

Both cylinders have good compression, otherwise I would really be worried.

Thanks to All, I'll get this thing fixed yet -- Cal