The idea is the seal is soaked in oil, and it swells up somewhat and seals best it can.
I can't see how any type of sealant would help a rope seal, just hurt.

My 1955 235 gave me fits with rubber main seals leaking, I eventually solved the problem.
Perhaps I had problems because it is an early 235 and had not been designed for a rubber seal?
So far I don't have an answer/reason, but I do know others with 55 235 engines have had similar problems.
Read about my "fix" in this thread: https://www.stovebolt.com/ubbthread...g&topic=0&Search=true#Post369673
Grigg

Last edited by Grigg; 04/07/2008 3:26 AM.
•1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
•1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
•1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
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"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-