Permatex comes in different grades and colors. Black RTV Permatex is an oil-resistant product that is used for differentials, intake manifolds, transmission pans and other similar connections that contain concentrated petroleum-based products. Blue RTV Permatex is used for connections where electrical sensors might be integrated with the component because the sealant will not interfere with the performance of the sensor. Red RTV Permatex is used for high temperature connections, such as exhaust manifold and exhaust pipe flange connections.
Put on the safety glasses. Clean the mating surfaces of the components you intend to seal. Start by using the gasket scraper to clean off the old gasket and any other corrosive buildup on the mating surfaces.
Clean detachable mating surfaces in a parts cleaner. Wipe the detachable mating surface component dry with a clean shop rag. Spray the permanent mating surface with spray parts cleaner.
Clean both sides of the mating surface components with a die grinder and reconditioning disc. Be sure the reconditioning disc is the correct grade of coarseness for the job intended. Re-clean the components with parts cleaner and then wipe dry with a clean shop rag.
Apply a quarter-inch bead of Permatex RTV gasket sealant along the center of one side of the mating surface. Usually this would be the non-detachable side, such as a differential or engine block side of a valve cover gasket, intake manifold, thermostat housing or any other intended surface. Be careful and read the instructions on the Permatex product. Do not allow any Permatex to enter a differential chamber or any other chamber where the gasket could interfere with moving parts and compromise the component you're sealing. Be sure to apply the bead on the outside of bolt holes in the flange connections of the components.
Connect the mating surfaces together. Install bolts and tighten hand tight until the Permatex squeezes out slightly between the connection. Allow one to two hours for the Permatex to cure.
Torque the connected components to the proper torque specifications. Allow sufficient waiting time, according to the Permatex instructions, before adding petroleum-based products to the reservoir of the connection, if applicable. Permatex is designed to cure and seal quickly, but in some applications, such as transmission pans, more curing time may be necessary before filling the pan.
