If this is your first visit, be sure to
check out the FAQ by clicking the
link above. You will have to register
before you can post: click the register link above to proceed. To start viewing messages,
select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below.
I have several NOS rear mains (in "Studebaker" plastic bags) here that I have used over the years with no ill effects.. and they appear and feel like new ones.
I would inspect them carefully though for any signs of dryness or cracking.
The paper gasket for the valley cover is likely shrunk- a couple hours in some warm SOAPY water usually helps. Put it on, and let it dry again before gluing in place.
Usually no problems with the water manifold, or timing cover gaskets.
I haven't had any Intake or Exhaust manifold gaskets shrink either
Ray
Specializing in Studebaker Restoration
Ray
www.raylinrestoration.com
Specializing in Studebaker Restoration
I think that there are some environmental considerations regarding the gaskets. For instance, if the gaskets have been stored inside an air conditioned home or building in unopened packaging they might be OK. However, in areas where they are stored in extreme variations of temperature, like the attic of an unheated building where the temps become very hot in the summer and cold in winter, a lot of degradation could occur. In parts of the country where frequent electrical storms "fix" excessive ozone in the atmosphere, rubber components become prematurely brittle. I have had some OEM seals that were nice and flexible to the touch and have a packet stored next to them come out of the pack in pieces. Before I use any of the OEM gaskets I have...I always attempt to buy new ones first from a local parts store.
John Clary
Greer, SC
Life... is what happens as you are making plans.
SDC member since 1975
The oil pan filler block pieces, that go on the front and rear of the engine. These are the nice thick cork gaskets that need to be bent if they haven't been bent already. If a gasket set containing these has been stored in a warm dry region, such as a warm attic, these will have a tendency to split and disintegrate if they are put to use. Over the years they can lose their pliability and become stiff and brittle. When they are inserted into the groove, they could possibly split, rendering the gasket unusable. I would recommend the Fel-Pro sets with some newer, more pliable filler blocks than leaving it completely up to chance by using the NOS sets.
1964 Studebaker Commander R2 clone
1963 Studebaker Daytona Hardtop with no engine or transmission
1950 Studebaker 2R5 w/170 six cylinder and 3spd OD
1955 Studebaker Commander Hardtop w/289 and 3spd OD and Megasquirt port fuel injection(among other things)
Comment