Inner Timing Cover Gasket With Or Without Gasket Sealant?

[Jeff in W.C.]

I hope this doesn't become a thread with a lot of opinions, but should I install the gasket for the inner timing cover dry or with gasket sealant?

[Kurt in S.A.]

Per Snowbum's page, he says no sealant.

https://bmwmotorcycletech.info/timingchain.htm

Kurt

[gspd]

Grease

[Jeff in W.C.]

Grease

Grease?? How much and what type--or does it matter?

[gspd]

I use high temp caliper type grease but any decent grease will work.
Learned this trick in the '70's from an old (now dead) F1 mechanic.
I've done it literally hundreds of times, always with success.

Smear a thin coat all over the gaskets with your fingers.
It'll ooze out as you tighten the cover.
I use it on VC gaskets, diff gaskets, float bowl gaskets, trans cover gaskets, and all other paper or cork type gaskets.
(not for head gaskets obviously)

You might get a bit of sweating for the first few heat cycles.
It won't leak oil and it'll make everything a breeze for the next disassembly, even if that's in 20 years.
Nothing to scrape off, no corrosion.
Most gaskets remain re-usable but I wouldn't recommend that except in a pinch.

Don't forget the 2 washer gaskets at the top bolts.

[Rob Frankham]

I concur... although you can just as well use oil. The grease or oil softens the surface of the gasket and helps it to seal. No sealant required unless the mating surfaces are damaged.

With cork gaskets, you should use water to siften them...

Rob

[Jeff in W.C.]

GSPD and Rob,
A quick question. Does it matter which side of the gasket the grease is on? I would think not, but just thought I'd ask to be sure.

Thanks again

[gspd]

Grease both sides of the gasket(s).

[Jeff in W.C.]

Thanks

[Rob Frankham]

Grease both sides of the gasket(s).

+1

Rob