How Does a Conversion Gasket Work?
The gasket provides a seal in between various parts of the engine. As the engine does not come ready-made as one complete unit and as it does have to be mated with other components, certain parts must be bolted together. Invariably, the internal workings of these parts or components need to be lubricated with oil or cooled with a water composite and there is a considerable risk that these fluids could leak under pressure when the vehicle is in operation. Consequently, gaskets have been developed that provide a tight seal between these various components and parts and help to avoid this issue.
It should also be remembered that when two parts are mated together, they are not always perfectly smooth and often contain irregularities along their surface. Gaskets help to account for these irregularities by providing a tight seal under pressure. Whenever an engine needs renovation or rebuild, it will need to be disassembled and the old gaskets should always be discarded and new ones fitted. These typically come in a conversion gasket set or kit to make the job easier.
How Is a Conversion Gasket Made?
Gaskets are made by forcing a master template onto a sheet of the original material, to “punch” out the gasket itself, complete with holes for lubrication, etc.
Typically, gaskets come in a variety of materials including rubber, cork, graphite or fiber and a conversion gasket set will contain pieces made from two or more of these varied materials.
Usually, a set will include replacement gaskets for the sump, water pump, timing cover and main seal.