FORM-IN-PLACE GASKETThe engine has several areas where the form-in-place gasket (FIPG) is in use. To ensure that the gasketfully serves its purpose, it is necessary to observe some precautions when applying the gasket. Beadsize, continuity and location are of paramount importance. Too thin a bead could cause leaks. Too thicka bead, on the other hand, could be squeezed out of location, causing blocking or narrowing of thefluid feed line. To eliminate the possibility of leaks from a joint, therefore, it is absolutely necessary toapply the gasket evenly without a break, while observing the correct bead size.The FIPG used in the engine is a room temperature vulcanization (RTV) type and is supplied in a 100-gramtube (Part No. MD970389 or MD997110). Since the RTV hardens as it reacts with the moisture in theatomospheric air, it is normally used in the metallic flange areas. The FIPG, Part No. MD970389, canbe used for sealing both engine oil and coolant, while Part No. 997110 can only be used for engineoil sealing.DisassemblyThe parts assembled with the FIPG can be easily disassembled without use of a special method. Insome cases, however, the sealant between the joined surfaces may have to be broken by lightly strikingwith a mallet or similar tool. A flat and thin gasket scraper may be lightly hammered in between thejoined surfaces. In this case, however, care must be taken to prevent damage to the joined surfaces.For removal of the oil pan, the special tool “Oil Pan Remover” (MD998727) is available. Be sure to usethe special tool to remove the oil pan. Surface PreparationThoroughly remove all substances deposited on the gasket application surfaces, using a gasket scraperor wire brush. Check to ensure that the surfaces to which the FIPG is to be applied is flat. Make surethat there are no oils, greases and foreign substances deposited on the application surfaces. Do notforget to remove the old sealant remained in the bolt holes.Form-In-Place Gasket ApplicationWhen assembling parts with the FIPG, you must observe some precautions, but the procedures is verysimple as in the case of a conventional precut gasket.Applied FIPG bead should be of the specified size and without breaks. Also be sure to encircle thebolt hole circumference with a completely continuous bead. The FIPG can be wiped away unless it ishardened. While the FIPG is still moist (in less than 15 minutes), mount the parts in position. Whenthe parts are mounted, make sure that the gasket is applied to the required area only. In addition, donot apply any oil or water to the sealing locations or start the engine until a sufficient amount of time(about one hour) has passed after installation is completed.The FIPG application procedure may vary on different areas. Observe the procedure described in thetext when applying the FIPG.:stupid: