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Do you have any tips
for applying gasket sealant? W.S., via e-mail
In some applications
sealant can be used instead of preformed gaskets or as a dressing to form
a rubber-like coating that fills in any small imperfections in the sealing’s
surfaces. Regardless, make sure the sealer is fresh and has not begun
to solidify. If it has, discard it and use a new batch. In addition, check
the expiration date on the tube or container and be sure to discard it
if it has expired.
Before applying the
sealant, make sure that all mating surfaces are clean. Therefore carefully
scrape any residual material, grease, paint, or other contaminant from
the surfaces with a blunt scraper to avoid marring or otherwise damaging
the areas. Once everything is clean, use a quick-drying solvent and a
clean, lint-free shop towel to wipe down the surfaces.
To ensure a perfect
seal, brush a light coating of sealant on both mating surfaces as well
as on both sides of the gasket. But be careful not to overdo it, since
excess sealant will squeeze out and make a mess as the surfaces are bolted
together. In addition, make sure none of the compound gets into bolt or
alignment-pin holes, as this can cause hydraulic lock and subsequent failure
of components to properly seat or incorrect bolt torque.
I have an older gasoline
stern drive engine on my boat. What does a loud grinding noise indicate
when the starter runs? T.R., via e-mail
The improper
meshing of the starter pinion and the flywheel ring gear often causes
this. In some cases it can also be caused by a broken, overrunning starter
clutch. In either situation, this is a job for a mechanic to address,
not one you should tackle by yourself.
The starter will need
to be removed and the starter pinion gear checked. If the teeth are chipped
or worn, the flywheel ring gear will also need a look-see. Should this
be the problem, replacing both the starter and ring gear may be necessary.
If the pinion gear is
in good condition, the problem is in the starter itself.
Need help with a
maintenance problem? Write to Maintenance Q & A, Power & Motoryacht,
260 Madison Ave., 8th Fl., New York, NY 10016. Fax: (917) 256-2282. e-mail:
ken.kreisler@primedia.com.
No phone calls, please.
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