Ever heard that little drip, drip, drip coming from your engine? Or maybe you’ve noticed a greasy trail on your garage floor? That’s often a sign that your valve cover gasket is leaking. And when it comes to fixing that leak, a good RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) sealant can be your best friend. But stepping into the auto parts store, you’re hit with a wall of different RTV tubes. Which one is the right choice for your valve cover? It can feel like a puzzle, and picking the wrong one can lead to more leaks and wasted money.
Choosing the wrong RTV can mean a quick fix that doesn’t last, or worse, it could damage your engine components. You want a sealant that can handle the heat and pressure inside your engine bay and create a tight seal that keeps that oil where it belongs. So, what makes one RTV better than another for this specific job? We’re going to break it all down.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for in an RTV sealant for your valve cover gasket. We’ll explain the different types, what they’re good for, and how to use them correctly. Get ready to stop the drips and protect your engine!
Our Top 5 Rtv For Valve Cover Gasket Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rtv For Valve Cover Gasket Detailed Reviews
1. Permatex 82194 Ultra Grey Rigid High-Torque RTV Silicone Gasket Maker
Rating: 8.9/10
When you need a gasket that can handle tough jobs, Permatex 82194 Ultra Grey Rigid High-Torque RTV Silicone Gasket Maker is the solution. This special silicone sealant creates strong gaskets right where you need them. It’s made for engines and other parts that get hot, shake a lot, or have strong bolts. It’s safe for sensors and won’t harm metal parts.
What We Like:
- It makes super strong gaskets that don’t leak.
- It’s tough and can handle shaking and tight bolts.
- It lasts a long time and won’t get hard or crack.
- It works in really hot and cold temperatures.
- You can use it to make new gaskets or fix old ones.
- It’s safe for your car’s sensors.
- It works on many parts like valve covers and oil pans.
What Could Be Improved:
- It can be a bit messy to work with if you’re not careful.
- It takes some time to dry completely before you can use the part.
Permatex Ultra Grey is a reliable choice for sealing engine parts. It gives you a strong, lasting seal that keeps things running smoothly.
2. Permatex 82180 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker
Rating: 9.3/10
Leaky gaskets can cause a lot of problems for your car. The Permatex 82180 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker is here to help. This black silicone sealant is designed to create strong, long-lasting seals. It’s great for many parts of your engine and transmission. It can handle high temperatures and resist oil, making it a reliable choice for tough jobs.
What We Like:
- It’s sensor-safe and won’t rust metal parts.
- It sticks well to oily surfaces.
- It resists many car fluids like engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant.
- It stays flexible even in extreme temperatures, from -65°F to 500°F.
- It can replace old gaskets or be used to make new ones.
- It’s durable and won’t crack or shrink over time.
- It works great on valve covers, oil pans, transmission pans, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3 oz tube might be small for very large jobs.
- It can take some time to fully cure, so plan your repairs accordingly.
The Permatex 82180 Ultra Black is a powerful tool for any DIY mechanic. It provides a dependable seal that can withstand the demands of your vehicle’s powertrain.
3. Permatex 82180 Ultra Black RTV Silicone Gasket Maker
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of leaky engine parts? The Permatex 82180 Ultra Black RTV Silicone Gasket Maker is here to help. This stuff creates a super strong seal that keeps oil and other engine fluids exactly where they belong. It’s a great alternative to those old, hard-to-fit paper gaskets.
What We Like:
- It’s super flexible, so it can handle engine movement without cracking.
- It resists oil and other engine fluids really well.
- It’s safe for sensors and won’t rust your engine parts.
- You don’t need to buy special pre-cut gaskets anymore.
- Car companies even approve of it for warranty work!
What Could Be Improved:
- It can take a while to fully cure, so you need to be patient.
- The nozzle can sometimes get clogged if you don’t clean it well.
This gasket maker is a reliable solution for keeping your engine sealed tight. It’s a smart choice for DIYers and professionals alike.
4. Permatex 81630 Ultra Red High Temperature Gasket Maker
Rating: 9.2/10
The Permatex 81630 Ultra Red High Temperature Gasket Maker is a powerful sealant for your car’s engine. It’s designed to handle extreme heat, making it ideal for tough jobs. This product also keeps its shape and sticks well to surfaces. It’s the same kind of stuff the car makers use. Plus, it doesn’t smell bad, won’t hurt your car’s sensors, and won’t rust metal parts. It’s safe to use because it won’t catch fire or be harmful.
What We Like:
- It can handle very high temperatures, up to 650°F (399°C) when it’s not constantly hot.
- It stays flexible and sticks really well, so it creates a strong seal.
- It’s just like the gaskets that come straight from the car factory.
- It’s safe for your car’s sensors and won’t harm metal.
- It has a low odor and is not flammable or toxic.
- You can use it to make a new gasket or to help an old one work better.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3 oz tube might be a bit small for larger projects.
- Cleaning up excess material can sometimes be tricky.
This gasket maker is a reliable choice for anyone needing a tough, high-temperature seal. It offers excellent performance and safety features for various automotive applications.
5. Permatex 22074 Ultra Grey Rigid High-Torque RTV Silicone Gasket Maker
Rating: 8.7/10
When you need a gasket maker that can handle tough jobs, the Permatex 22074 Ultra Grey Rigid High-Torque RTV Silicone Gasket Maker is a solid choice. This stuff is made for engines that work hard. It’s designed to keep sealing even when things get hot, shake a lot, or face high pressure. It’s sensor-safe, so it won’t harm your engine’s sensitive parts. Plus, it won’t rust your metal parts, which is a big plus.
What We Like:
- It’s built for high-torque and high-vibration jobs.
- It really holds up against shaking and movement.
- It fights off oil, coolant, and other shop fluids really well.
- The smell isn’t too strong, and it’s gentle on metal.
- It’s safe for your car’s sensors.
- It works great on valve covers, oil pans, and intake manifold seals.
- You can use it on timing covers, water pumps, and thermostat housings too.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.5 oz tube might be a bit small for larger jobs.
- It takes a little time to fully cure, so plan your repairs.
For anyone working on their car and needing a reliable seal, this Permatex gasket maker is a reliable helper. It’s a smart pick for keeping your engine running smoothly.
Choosing the Right RTV for Your Valve Cover Gasket
A leaky valve cover gasket is a common problem. It can cause oil to drip onto your engine. This can lead to bad smells and even engine damage. Luckily, fixing it is usually straightforward. You’ll need a new gasket and some RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) sealant. RTV acts like a super-strong glue. It helps create a tight seal. This guide will help you pick the best RTV for your valve cover gasket.
What to Look For: Key Features of Valve Cover RTV
When you shop for RTV, some things are more important than others.
- Temperature Resistance: Engine parts get hot. Your RTV needs to handle high temperatures. Look for RTV that can withstand at least 400°F (204°C). Some can go even higher.
- Oil Resistance: The valve cover area is filled with oil. The RTV must resist oil. If it doesn’t, the oil will break down the sealant. This will cause leaks again.
- Flexibility: Engines vibrate. The RTV needs to be a little flexible. This helps it stick even when parts move slightly.
- Cure Time: How fast does the RTV dry and harden? Some RTV cures quickly. Others take longer. Consider how much time you have for the repair.
- Color: RTV comes in different colors. Black, grey, and red are common. Black and grey are often good choices for valve covers.
Important Materials and What They Mean
RTV sealants are made of silicone. Different additives change how the silicone works.
- Silicone Base: This is the main ingredient. It makes the RTV sticky and waterproof.
- Curing Agents: These chemicals make the RTV harden. Some release alcohol when they cure (neutral cure). Others release acetic acid (acetoxy cure). Neutral cure is often better for engines because it won’t damage metal parts.
- Fillers and Additives: These improve the RTV’s strength, temperature resistance, and flexibility.
Factors That Affect Quality
Not all RTV is made the same. Some things make it better or worse.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make better products. They have tested their RTV thoroughly.
- Product Specifications: Always check the product label. It will tell you about temperature limits and oil resistance.
- Expiration Date: RTV can go bad. Check the date on the tube. Old RTV might not seal properly.
- Application Method: Some RTV comes in easy-to-use tubes with applicators. Others are more basic. A good applicator helps you put the RTV on smoothly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Many people use RTV for valve cover gaskets. It’s a common DIY repair.
- Ease of Use: Most RTV is easy to apply. You just squeeze it out of the tube. Make sure the surface is clean and dry first.
- Durability: When used correctly, RTV can last for years. It creates a strong, lasting seal.
- Cost-Effectiveness: RTV is usually affordable. It’s a cheap way to fix a leaky valve cover.
- Versatility: You can use RTV for other engine seals too. It’s good for oil pans and water pumps.
FAQ: Your Valve Cover RTV Questions Answered
Q: What is RTV used for on a valve cover gasket?
A: RTV is used to create a watertight and oil-tight seal between the valve cover and the engine cylinder head. It helps prevent oil leaks.
Q: What type of RTV is best for valve covers?
A: Look for RTV specifically designed for engines. It should be high-temperature and oil-resistant. Many mechanics recommend black or grey RTV silicone.
Q: Do I need to use RTV with a new valve cover gasket?
A: Sometimes. Many new gaskets are designed to seal on their own. However, some manufacturers recommend a thin bead of RTV in specific areas, like corners or where the gasket meets the camshaft seal.
Q: How much RTV should I use?
A: Use a thin, even bead. Too much RTV can squeeze out and get into the engine. This can clog oil passages. A bead about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick is usually enough.
Q: How long does RTV take to cure?
A: Cure times vary. Some RTV is tack-free in about an hour. It fully cures in 24 hours. Always check the product instructions.
Q: Can I use any RTV sealant?
A: No. You need RTV that can handle engine oil and high temperatures. General-purpose RTV might not work well.
Q: What happens if I don’t use RTV when it’s recommended?
A: You might get an oil leak. The seal won’t be complete, and oil can escape.
Q: Can I reuse an old valve cover gasket with RTV?
A: It’s generally not recommended. Old gaskets can become brittle and lose their sealing ability. Always use a new gasket.
Q: How do I prepare the surface for RTV?
A: Clean both the valve cover and the cylinder head thoroughly. Remove all old gasket material, oil, and dirt. The surfaces must be completely dry.
Q: Where can I buy RTV for valve covers?
A: You can find RTV at auto parts stores, online retailers, and some hardware stores.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.