Replaced the zinc today, checked the gasket on the end of the exchanger and found it rather deteriorated. Not easy to find but my diesel guy had one for $5. Glad I checked. That was ready to go.
I’m electric now and don’t have these problems, but when I had hard-to-find gaskets, I used to use Permatex gaskets: Gasket Makers - Permatex®
I’ll let others comment on whether they agree or disagree, but it worked for me.
– Bob
Agree
Permatex on the heat exchanger ends and on the extruded exhaust manifold ends . The rubber gaskets had serious issues, corrosion and leaks after 30 years. What happened in my case is the steel end plates corroded under the rubber gasket - where there was no gasket covering the steel and there was contact with the antifreeze there was no rust. A few years now and no leaks and no rust. I think the problem is called crevice corrosion.
Tom
Also used blue permatex on the diesel tank inspection port instead of a gasket. No leaks. The old rubber used to weep a little no mater what I did to tighten it. 10 years now and still 100%.
There is an o ring on the bolt that needs to be renewed as well
Yes, the old one is still there. Finding these parts is a challenge. I’m in Solomons, MD. What sources are you using, store-front or online?
Dan Mills
sakina #460
Solomons, MD
Take the bolt to an autocrats store for the o ring… those gaskets are just neoprene rubber, you could cut one if need be…
I’ve found that the best prices and largest parts stock for my Westerbeke is Trans Atlantic Diesel in Virginia
Joe Valinoti
S/V iL Gatto NS30U #221
Sea Harbour YC
Oriental, NC USA
Thor: I don’t think you can cut an “O” ring to length because when you tighten it, it will come out from under the head.
Regards,
Joe Valinoti
S/V iL Gatto NS30U #221
Sea Harbour YC
Oriental, NC USA
No you need to buy the o ring… Napa and similar have thrm for pennies. The larger gasket can be cut . They are not reusable in my experience…