Proper proceedure for replacing oil pan, timing cover & rms gaskets?...

[Mark B]

Hey everyone,
I am replacing the gaskets on my 96 LT1 before I drop it into my 91 RS. I have a new oil pan gasket, timing cover gasket & rear main seal. I have never replaced a RMS or oil pan gasket before. I replaced a timing cover gasket once, but it leaked like crazy afterwards.

Whats the proper proceedure for replacing these. The manual I have says I need to install the RMS & timing cover gasket first, then the oil pan. Is that right? Where, if at all, do I need to use RTV? Any tips/tricks I should know?


Thanks in advance,
Mark B

[BrdWAtti2d]

Yes that's correct, you have to install the timing cover first. There is a rubber seal on the bottom of the timing cover that seats into the oil pan so that it needs to be in place before reinstalling the oil pan. If I were you I would also replace the 3 seals in the timing cover while you have it off. Personally I use RTV on any gasket face (both sides). The is also a small ledge on both sides of the timing cover where the rubber part on the bottom meets the gasket face. I applied a good amount of RTV here as well since this seemed like a place where the cover might develop a leak. This will insure you have a good seal and prevent any leaks. You need to place a small piece of plastic rolled into a tube into the water pump drive shaft seal before you slide it onto the shaft or you will damage the seal. I found it easier to install the cover first and then put this seal in place after. I would let the RTV set at least overnight before firing the engine up. Probably a good idea to check the timing gears and chain for excessive wear and chain play while you have the cover off.