Oil Pan Gaskets

Is oil dripping from the edge of your oil pan, or does the pan need to come off during an engine project? The gasket seals the joint between the oil pan and the engine block, and in this category you will find individual gaskets, gasket sets and kits for both car engines and Harley-Davidson transmissions.

What does an oil pan gasket do?

The gasket has to keep the engine oil in between the oil pan and the block, even as the engine repeatedly heats up and cools down. Over time, rubber can harden and crack, and a gasket that has been pinched unevenly or overtightened can start to seep. During a larger rebuild, it can be practical to choose an engine gasket set or replace the valve cover gaskets at the same time.

How to choose an oil pan gasket

Fitment for your specific engine comes first, as oil pans vary in shape and number of bolt holes – the range includes, for example, a set for the Subaru BRZ, WRX and Toyota 86 with 11 bolts. Also consider:

• Material: e.g. molded rubber such as Fel-Pro PermaDry, Moroso's one-piece rubber gasket for Honda and Acura B-series engines, or multi-layer AFM gaskets from Cometic Gasket.
• Thickness: must suit the design of the engine and the pan; Cometic, for example, lists .060 and .225 inches on different part numbers.
• Gasket or kit: a set can contain several parts for the joint, e.g. the set with SnapUps for the Acura Integra from Fel-Pro.

Installation and sealing

Clean the flanges of old gasket material and oil, and check that the edge of the oil pan is flat. Tighten the bolts evenly according to the engine manufacturer's instructions, as incorrect torque can deform the gasket or flange. Whether sealant is needed in corners and at joints depends on the engine and gasket type. You can find more seals under engine gaskets and seals.

Frequently asked questions

Can I reuse an oil pan gasket?

As a rule, you should install a new gasket whenever the oil pan has been removed. A hardened, cracked or deformed gasket rarely seals again. Whether a specific type can be reused depends on the product and the manufacturer's instructions.

What is the difference between rubber gaskets and multi-layer gaskets?

Molded rubber gaskets are shaped to the flange, while multi-layer gaskets, such as Cometic's AFM versions, are available in different thicknesses. Which type is right depends on the engine, oil pan and application – check the specific part number.

Why is oil seeping even though the oil pan gasket is new?

It can be caused by uneven or incorrect tightening, a bent flange, remnants of the old gasket or missing sealant where it is required. The oil may also come from elsewhere, such as the valve cover, and run down, so find the source first.