Hi -

Getting ready to start buttoning up my r53 after recovering from a spun big-end bearing. I would like to hear others experiences on using sealant (or not) on the metal-metal seal between the main bearing ladder and the block.

I don't want it to leak and don't want to mess up my main bearing clearances! Caught on the horns of a dilemna!

I was considering the "light" version of hylomar as being well regarded and thin enough to (hopefully) not mess with the tolerances.

Thanks,

David

 

Also saw positive reviews for this stuff (which I haven't used before) - Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket No. 3.

 

I've heard of people using hondabond.

 

Be very careful on the type of sealant you use for the bedplate. The TIS specifies an anaerobic loctite number that has been discontinued - but replaced with another if you do some research.

DO NOT USE AN RTV sealant! The engine will leak like a sieve.

 

Thanks for the heads up!

I discovered those ebay BMW TIS discs include records for R53!
So, I was able to read the appropriate TIS.

The version I read says seal with Loctite 518 (and shows a picture of where to put it, so worth checking it out for anyone else trying to do this).

Loctite 518 does seem to be available, so all should be good.