waterpump gasket is leaking, just replaced

[Kozworth]

Hey guys just a quick question. I got a new pump from germanautoparts and they gave me two gaskets. I figured one was extra as normally 2 gaskets is retroactive. I read the bag and they said they did not require sealant.

It turns out the gasket seems to look like wet cardboard, it isn't flat and flush. It wasn't leaking for 2k miles until yesterday. I ordered a new pump and gasket but just wondering if I was supposed to use both gaskets.

Thanks

[jlevie]

You are only supposed to use one gasket. The usual cause of the water pump leaking at the gasket is a failure to completely clean all of the old gasket from the block. But sometimes there is pitting of the block and sealant is then indicated.

Oh, and the leak could be from the pump seal and not the gasket.

[nando]

I usually smear a light coat of RTV on both sides of the gasket. gasket spray would also work. helps hold it in place while you bolt up the pump - never had one leak.

[MR 325]

This stuff is hands down the best thing to use for paper and cork gaskets. RTV is no bueno.

[rodrigo]

I don;t think I used gasket sealant when I did the timing belt at 125,000 miles and it has been good for about 50,000 miles. I remember when i took the old water pump off the gasket came off very cleanly...I scraped the block surface almost as a formality and to make sure everything was off before the new gasket went on.

Did you scrape all of the old material off?

[Kozworth]

Yea I tried my best along with drying the gasket mating surface. I am gonna take off the pump and inspect it.. I ordered a new pumpas well.

I have some gasket sealant ( I forget the brand off the top of my head) ill maybe use aswell. Does anyone have torque specs for the wpump bolts because I will double check them too

[MR 325]

Oh god, here with go with torque specs again.

[nando]

lol

torque specs: a small crafstman ratchet and my pinky finger as tight as it can go. :p