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CanadaTaking a Closer Look at Vehicle Leaks
A big part of maintaining a vehicle’s overall health is ensuring that the gaskets are sealing properly. Leaks like engine oil, coolant and transmission fluid are problematic. The Fel-Pro® Leak Inspection Checklist allows service technicians to document any signs of fluid leaks to share with the customer. While a small leak may not require vehicle maintenance today, a thorough check helps your customer maintain optimal vehicle performance.
When you need to replace a gasket, you can install Fel-Pro problem-solving gaskets with confidence. Designed specifically for the repair environment to seal even the most troublesome applications, Fel-Pro has a complete portfolio of sealing technologies including PermaDryPlus®, PermaDry® and Blue Stripe®. Read on to learn what areas you should examine and download our handy checklist to help you keep track of your findings.
1. Engine GASKETS
Background
Key to vehicle performance, gaskets are utilized throughout the engine to hold fluids in, contain pressure, prevent contaminants from entering/exiting the engine and prevent fluid cross-contamination. Designed specifically for the repair environment, Fel-Pro replacement gaskets use the latest gasket technologies like PermaTorque® MLS and PermaDryPlus to ensure a dependable seal on imperfect surfaces.
Typical Leak Symptom(s)
Coolant and/or oil visible.
Leaks may cause
Variety of engine problems ranging from relatively minor (fluid loss in small amounts) to major (engine failure).
Areas to Examine
- Head gasket
- Intake manifold gasket
- Crankshaft seals
- Timing cover gasket
- Valve cover gasket
- Oil pan gasket
2. fuel system
Background
The fuel system ensures that a steady flow of gasoline to and from the engine. A failed fuel system gasket can cause a range of performance problems. Fel-Pro offers a full range of gaskets for the repair environment that reliably help solve fuel system sealing problems.
Typical Leak Symptom(s)
Fuel visible, strong fuel smell, rough running, MIL illumination.
Leaks May Cause
Potential engine hesitation and stalling due to low fuel pressure; poor gas mileage; Check Engine light activation; possible hazardous fuel leaks.
Areas to Examine
- TBI gasket
- Fuel injector O-rings
- Carburetor mounting gasket
3. cooling system
Background
As an engine runs, it creates a large amount of heat. Dispersing this heat is the responsibility of the cooling system. Fel-Pro has the right materials and technologies like PermaDryPlus and Blue Stripe for the repair.
Typical Leak Symptom(s)
Coolant visible and/or low coolant levels; sweet coolant smell from under the hood.
Leaks May Cause
Loss of coolant and/or low coolant levels possibly result in engine overheating and catastrophic engine failure.
Areas to Examine
- Water pump gasket
- Water outlet gasket
- Thermostat gasket
4. drivetrain
Background
When gaskets sealing drivetrain components leak, the loss of fluid can lead to premature wear and irreparable damage. Specifically designed for the repair environment, you can count on Fel-Pro drivetrain gaskets to seal the system and help make the installation easier.
Typical Leak Symptom(s)
Visible fluid and/or low fluid levels.
Leaks May Cause
Oil loss leading to failure of differential or transmission; improper shifting; oil leaks onto brake system components.
Areas to Examine
- Differential gasket/axle seal
- Transfer case gasket/driveshaft seal
- Automatic transmission gasket/axle seal
- Transaxle gasket/axle seal
5. exhaust system
Background
Designed to connect the exhaust manifolds to the exhaust system, they keep exhaust gasses from entering the vehicle and maintain proper pressure; exhaust system gaskets are important to the overall performance of your vehicle. Look to Fel-Pro for a range of replacement gaskets that are designed for the repair environment to effectively reseal exhaust system joints and surfaces. Exhaust manifold gaskets feature MLS, Blue Stripe and HTA technologies.
Typical Leak Symptom(s)
Noise, soot, rough running, MIL illumination.
Leaks May Cause
Exhaust noise, exhaust system rattle, potential for noxious gases entering passenger compartment, failure of new emission test standards and possible MIL illumination.
Areas to Examine
- EGR valve gasket
- Exhaust manifold gasket
- Flange gasket
- Converter-to-pipe gasket
Learn more about Fel-Pro quality gaskets that are specifically designed for the repair environment, find your car part, or find where to buy your auto part today.
The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice from a certified technician or mechanic. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.