Oil Pan Gaskets

[snakeeyes]

I had to pull the oil pan off of the small-block Chevy in my Lister over the weekend. I have had problems maintaining oil pressure under braking or in corners, and after pulling the pan it's easy to see why--there is no baffling whatsoever in the pan. I am sending it off to be modified.

I am curious as to recommendations for the gasket when I re-install it. There are numerous companies offering one-piece gaskets, some of whom claim that no gasket sealer is required. I haven't installed an oil pan in about 18 years and appreciate any input on whether to go with a one piece gasket or stick with the "old" style multi-piece set, whether to use gasket sealer regardless of whether the gasket maker says it's required or not, etc. The engine is still in the car, so I'll be reinstalling the pan from the underside and want to make the process as painless as possible--

Thanks,
Bob

[Bluesman]

FEL-PRO and SCE make one piece gaskets. No Sealant is required and they are re-usable. I put one on my 351W and haven't had any drips. $30.00 as opposed to a $10.00 four piece. The FEL-PRO comes with four of these slick 5/16 threaded plastic screws that hold the gasket up on the block and just make putting the pan back on eaiser.
You might want to check the oil pump's "pickup" assembly and make sure you have it set at the correct depth.

[Jack21]

Oil pan gaskets, and valve cover gaskets. To seal, and re-use use gasket adhesive (Permatex), 3M trim adhesive, or Weldwood contact adhesive on valve cover, pan gasket side; and wheel bearing grease on the block/head side. Seals, doesn't leak, removes easily, and reseals again.

Been using this technique for 30 years.

[snakeeyes]

Thanks for the replies. I have not checked the pickup depth but will...as usual, this forum is a great resource.

Bob