The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop front end plate question...

I have a '59 261 and I bought a gasket kit from Patrick's to do the rebuild. I know these gasket kits sometimes have extra pieces that apply to your exact engine. What I have a question about is the front end plate. When I disassembled the engine a few months ago, I don't recall seeing a gasket b/t the plate and the block. The kit, however, includes a gasket to fit b/t the plate and block. Do I need to install this gasket?

any help would be appreciated...I have just about made the decision to go ahead and put the gasket on whether it needs it or not. I don't see too much harm in doing that unless someone can state a specific reason.

Yes, you need the gasket or oil and water may get mixed up.
When you disassemble one of those old irons the verry thin paper gasket usualy comes of as a part of the gunk that was builded up during the years.

On the other hand it is possible that someone forgot to put one in at the last overhaul.

however - put it in.

Oh, some manufactors sale 235 gasket sets that match several years. I had to cut a portion out of my front plate cover gasket at the bump close to the oil snooze (to oil the cam gear). Make sure it fits or cut it to fit, otherwise it may block a oil passage or - even worse - a peace can come of when wet and gets into the engine.

Hope that helps, Frank

Shane, I just had a 1956 235 rebuilt. I worked pretty closely with the machinist. I provided a gasket set for the engine.

There was a front plate gasket in the kit, and the technician used it in the rebuild. I was not there when he took the plate off, so I can not address the issue of was there one in the engine from day one at the factory. In fact the question never came up in conversation. I can tell you that he used the gasket from the kit, as he returned the extra odd ball gasket which he could not identify.

okay, that confirms my suspicions. Thanks a lot guys, consider it done.

one other question...silicone or no silicone? This gasket is thin and I am not sure if that usually indicates whether or not silicone should be used. Also, does the same apply for all gaskets that are paper thin? Thanks again for the help.

I siliconed all the paper gaskets with good result at 3 engines. No silicone on head and intak/exaust gasket.

I used liquid Permatex Aviation Form A Gasket that comes in the little white jar with the brush in the cap. I just brushed a thin layer on both sides before assembly. Be careful with silicone. It can get into plces you don't want it.

Ditto on the brush-on Permatex. The best variety is called "Super 300", which is almost black in color, and is more durable than the regular 3-H brush-on type. It's a little hard to find, but worth the effort.
Jerry

thanks guys, I found some Permatex Indian Head Gasket Shelac. It's a brush-on that looks kinda like molasses. As an aside, anyone know what size tap to use for the holes at the bottom of the timing cover? They look like they would be a 3/8".