How to Use RTV Sealant
by C.L. ReaseRoom temperature vulcanizing (RTV) sealant cures with exposure to air. With no special curing requirements, RTV sealant has a wide range of home, automotive and industrial applications, but is not recommended for porous material, structural or moving parts and extreme high temperature application. No matter what your project is, the process of applying the RTV sealant is the same.
Step 1
Remove old sealant with a metal scraper -- be careful not to damage the mating surfaces.
Step 2
Remove any oil by applying degreaser to the mating surfaces. Allow the degreaser to remain on the surfaces for 30 to 60 seconds before wiping with a clean rag and repeating if necessary. Make sure the surface is otherwise completely clean and dry.
Step 3
Pierce the nozzle with the tube's cap and squeeze the RTV sealant in a continuous bead onto the surface of the base piece.
Step 4
Mount the mating surfaces together. If you are using the RTV sealant to seal a crack, smooth the bead of RTV sealant with your finger. Allow the RTV sealant to cure for 24 hours.
Tips
- Check with your mechanic before using RTV sealant. It's not appropriate for all situations.
- Apply only the amount you need. In automotive applications - particularly in replacing gaskets, application of the exact amount prevents seepage and possible contamination of other engine parts or fluids. Avoid getting RTV sealant on threaded hardware.
Things You'll Need
- Metal scraper
- Spray degreaser
- Clean rags
