Best practices for...

[Outback]

What are the best practices for sealing up a new water pump??

I found that the old one was leaking just a bit through the bolt that needs to be sealed -- and was -- and a bit behind the gasket.

What is the best way to seal the bolt?

What kind of silicone shoud I use on the gasket?

Should I put silicone on *both* sides of the gasket?

What do you guys do that has had good results? I want to get this done right the first time!

Jody.

 

[Cruiserdrew]

I don't think Toyota calls for any specific sealant, so dry should work. With that said, I used gray Permatex spread super thin when I replaced the WP and thermostat housing gasket on mine. I also replaced all the mounting bolts with new ones from Toyota. The old ones that penetrate the water jacket get a bit cruddy looking and the new shiny ones look great. The bolts that hold the thermostat cover are brittle pieces of crap. Be very careful as they tend to snap off, then use new ones installed with Anti-sieze.