How to Seal Copper O-rings

Copper o-rings serve as an optional fix for a head gasket repair. They are used alongside a copper gasket that seals the engine block to the cylinder head. When you install copper o-rings, they create a reinforced bond between the engine block, the head gasket and the cylinder head. The bond is caused by compression pressure and the combustion heat from the engine. Sealing the copper o-ring involves creating a seal for the entire assembly.

Instructions

1

Purchase an o-ring or copper wire that is thick enough to fit in the area around the individual engine block hole while accommodating the copper head gasket. The head gasket cannot sit above the deck or outermost surface of the engine block. Get one o-ring per hole in your engine block.

2

Place the o-ring on the area around each hole in the engine block. If using a copper wire, lay the wire around the hole but away from the outer walls that surround each hole. Use the wire cutters to cut enough wire so that the starting and ending points touch. Cut the wire the same way for the other holes.

3

Spray the area around the engine block hole with gasket adhesive. Allow it to sit and cure a few moments before placing the o-rings or copper wire on the area. Allow the adhesive to cure up to 10 minutes or until it is tacky to the touch.

4

Spray the deck of the engine block with gasket adhesive. Place the copper head gasket onto the engine block and the copper o-ring. Assemble the rest of the cylinder head and engine block assembly. After the bolts are properly tightened with a torque wrench calibrated for your engine, the seal is formed.