FA20 Reassembly - what sealants and where?
 

Just wondering what sealants people are using when rebuilding the FA20?

When I stripped my stock engine there was quiet a few strands of RTV caught in the pick-up mesh and it’s not really that surprising when you see how much RTV is used from the factory

Has anyone tried using some Anaerobic sealants as an alternative in some locations? I’m thinking of places like between the case halves and maybe the lower cradle/ sub-assembly where it’s clean tight fitting machined surfaces. I was planning to use Permatex 51031

As far as RTV goes what are people’s go to....and are you using the OEM bead recesses (e.g. inner lip of the front cover) or smearing across the entire flange faces?

I suggest to do homework and consult manuals in depth regarding that. Recall botched cases of valve spring recall job on older twin with killed engine due sealant bits blocking off oil passages, so one should use right sealant, of right amount, at right places, not go by hunch/from experience on other engines and experiment with different replacements and different application.

I think I’m general your right, but I guess my issue is that if I go by the Manual and stick with the OEM application than I’m highly likely to see RTV in the pickup again.

Also from my assessment of the engine during disassembly the OEM application look very heavy handed and unusual in some locations.

Excellent that’s great info. From a look at the spec sheets I think the Permatex flange sealant i’ve gone with is pretty much the same just with a higher temp range so that should work.

Have you had any issues splitting the block or removing the front cover for example having used them?

I would stick with the manufacturer's suggestions, Subaru engines can be problematic if not sealed correctly.

Goto the toyota or subaru dealership. they have sealant that comes in a calking gun tube and is the best sealant ever. It would definitely be worth your money. Plus locktite

I'd imagine the recall parts kit comes with it.

Just make sure you don't add too much and you will be good.

I'm sure they do, the issue I've heard is they aren't following the "map" of how much sealant and where.