How to Use RTV Gasket Sealant on an Intake Manifold

Room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) sealant is thick, liquid sealant used for creating a tight bond between flexible parts, such as an engine and intake manifold. Use RTV sealant as a formed-in-place gasket or as an extra layer of protection during the installation of a preformed gasket. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before application.

Things You'll Need

  • Residue-free solvent
  • Rags
  • Utility knife
  • RTV sealant
  • Clean the gasket of both the intake manifold and engine block with a rag saturated in residue-free solvent. Scrub the areas well to remove all remnants of the previous gasket and all oil residue.

  • Cut the tip of the tube of RTV gasket sealant on an angle with a utility knife so the opening is approximately 1/8 inch in diameter.

  • Apply a continuous bead of RTV gasket sealant to the gasket well of the engine block. Fill the perimeter and around the bolt holes. If using the sealant as a formed-in-place gasket without a pre-formed gasket, place the intake manifold in position while the sealant is wet. If using it as a gasket dressing, place the pre-formed gasket on top of the bead while the sealant is wet.

  • Apply a second thin layer of RTV sealant to the top of the pre-formed gasket if using it as a gasket dressing. Place the intake manifold in position while the sealant is still wet.

  • Insert the bolts and torque them to the manufacturer’s specifications. Do not over-tighten the bolts.

  • Clean your hands, tools and any excess, while the sealant is wet, with a clean, dry cloth. Wash your hands with hand cleaner to remove any remaining residue.