Sealant on Rocker Shaft Bores?

[Scott Clarke]

So, I saw an idea about rocker shaft leaks in this thread: Rocker arms/ Input Shaft leak ?

The idea is to use RTV to seal the ends of the rocker shaft bores. Is this worth doing? I have a couple of shaft bores I'm a little concerned with, and now would be a great time to do this as I've just finished the longblock. I'm using RSR seals, but would this belt-and-suspenders approach be worthwhile? Here is the photo from the related thread:

Thanks,
-Scott

[88-diamondblue]

I wouldn't do it if you are using the RSR seals. There was a thread that discussed the use of the seals and that bores should be in good shape and won't leak. Also torque the shafts to 18ft lbs instead of the factory rated 13ft lbs. Do a seach in the engine building forum for more on this subject. I used the RSR seals on my rebuild. I thought it was cheap insurance against leaks. Some will disagree.

[Scott Clarke]

Michael-
Why not do both?
-Scott

[Eagledriver]

Sealing externally with silicon rubber rarely works. Additionally when you go to take the shafts out again you'll hate yourself. I just learn to live with the leaks. They are usually very minor if they leak at all.

-Andy

[Scott Clarke]

Thanks, Andy. I'll go without, and will knock on wood and cross my fingers.
-Scott

[88-diamondblue]

Scott,

I agree with Andy on this as to what he says if you ever have to remove them. It would be ok for a temp fix. As you will see in the other thread unless the bores are bad they shouldn't leak even with out the RSR seals. I think my cost on the RSR seals was $36 so as to the total rebuild cost it was almost nothing. Amazing how those almost nothing costs add up to several thousand dollars. Check out this thread on the same subject. I had my rocker shafts polished as part of the rebuild. No leaks in the first 4000 miles including several track days. rocker arm shaft leaks