So I got my Hughes Plenum kit with victor reinz intake gasket kit part # HUG3215.

My question is do I use any sealer here?

I read in other places not to use the rubber pieces that go on the front and back and just use a thick bead of silicon sealer instead.

I'm confused if I should use any sealer like RTV with any of the intake or create my own gasket on the ends with some sealer like other places suggested.

 

I used the rubber pieces on mine but also added a thin layer of sealant. I haven't had any problems with mine. Why would it be a problem is my question? There would be a gap without it, and using just a gasket maker on a gap that big just doesn't seem like it would hold up. It has no rigidity?

 

I don't know either. I figured I get some opinions from here. But I agree, I don't think it will hold up either that way.

 

The idea is to use a thick bead of black rtv sealent to create a secure seal that won't blow out. I have gathered, from people I've talked to,that the end seals that are supplied with the intake gaskets, that they're prone to leaks. Also, if you've ever watched horsepower tv (show) or any other DIY car show, they always use black rtv inorder to create there end seals. Rigidity isn't always the best when it comes to gaskets. They need to be flexible and move with the various type of metals in the engine. I would junk the rubber seals and use rtv...your call though.

 

Thanks for the opinions. I just wanted to do it right the second time around. I think the first time I did it didn't work out. Would those end seals blowing out cause a coolant leak?

 

You have a point. But what if he used the rubber gaskets and then applied RTV to both sides as well? Would that make a stronger seal?

 

I like that idea /\ /\.

 

The idea is to eliminate the RUBBER seals in favor of rtv. It's more pliable and not prone to leaking (if done right)...and yes, a leak at your end seals is the result of a crappy rubber gasket.

 

i used a very light coat of rtv on both sides of the rubber gasket, just enough make it sticky. then a pretty good dab in the corners where the end and side gaskets intersect. knock on wood, no leaks.

the end seal a little tricky in that the whole thing is sort of v-shaped, and less than perfect.

the good thing about the rubber gasket is that it compresses down and seals the end surfaces to the block. if you don't use the rubber gasket, then be sure and use a generous enough bead of rtv to fill that gap, which could be 1/4" or so.

 

Well I got everything re-installed finally. Decided to use an excessive amount of rtv and no gasket. I used about 3/4 of the tube between the front and back and let dry about 90 minutes. So far so good.

During the removal it looked like an alien exploded under my intake from oil and water mix. It's all clean and shiny now.

Thanks for the help.