Upper Coolant Return Gasket (1 Viewer)

[landtank]

Noticed a leak in the coolant return pipe from the upper radiator where it mates to the head. The Gasket is a thin aluminum type. I removed the old one which was installed when I did the head in the spring. A thin layer of plastic/teflon separated from both sides of the aluminum gasket.

So the question is, is this thin layer part of the gasket and aids in sealing or is it a protective layer to prevent damage to the aluminum gasket during shipping and storage and should have been removed during instalation.

 

[robbie]

The teflon is a sealant and if it was new should not be pealing like you are describing. The gasket is soft steal and has a crush "v" stamped into it. So when you install it and tighten the nuts on the studs it will provide a sutiable seal. Both this "v" stamp and the coating help prevent leaks. If it is pealing either clean it up and use some High temp RTV or Black toyota FIPG, or replace it. No clues as to why it was leaking here, maybe just a bad part. later robbie

 

[landtank]

Thanks Robbie. It's been in there about 20k and started to leak. The teflon is separating from the metal on both sides where the leak was. Do you do any prep to the head or the pipe such as a light sanding to clean up the oxydation outside the gasket area?

 

[robbie]

Yes I do use scotch brite commerical pads to clean the area and if am on top of it I usually clean the surface with brakeleen to remove any stuff. I usually do not see much seperation of this gasket unless it has a lot of miles on the engine. later robbie

 

[landtank]

Thanks again, gasket will be here on Tuesday and I'll see how long this one lasts.