Will automotive gaskets work?

[gjordon59]

I just purchased an '86 Mercruiser 170hp 4 cyl. 3.7L ( I believe) I am needing to replace the valve cover gasket and I don't really wish to wait a week on ordering one. I don't normally use automotive parts on marine but am wondering if an auto gasket would work just as well. If so, how do I go about finding the automotive equivilant?

 

[snapperbait]

Re: Will automotive gaskets work?

The 3.7 is a mercruiser engine, as in mfg'd by mercruiser.. It has no automotive counterpart..<br /><br />However, the cylinder head used on the merc 3.7 is mfg'd by Ford and it is same head used on Ford 460 ci V8 engines used in trucks... I see no problem using an automotive (or truck) gasket in this case, as long as the gasket is'nt cork..<br /><br />You may also wish to check with NAPA... They may have the specific 3.7 merc gasket...

 

[JasonB]

Re: Will automotive gaskets work?

I agree. I believe a VC gasket is a VC gasket. Just picked up a standard set of FelPros for my Mercruiser yesterday (VC and intake).

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Will automotive gaskets work?

Take the valve cover to an auto parts store and have them match up something or make your own.Charlie

 

[BillP]

Re: Will automotive gaskets work?

I don't know if it is relevant but will pass this experience along as something to check. Several yrs ago I rebuilt a ChrisCraft marine engine which was a conversion(like 99% of marine gas engines)of auto based engines. I purchased the automotive head gasket and it fit fine at first glance...only problem was ONE of the water galleries was not cut out for marine exhaust. I had to cut ONE additional hole in the gasket to make it cool properly. My advice is to check the gasket very carefully before you set the heads. I learned the hard way and had to take the gasket out after motor was put back together. It was dumping zero water out the exhaust. All over a 1/2"-3/4" diameter hole.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Will automotive gaskets work?

The valve cover gasket is the ONLY one I would use an automotive gasket for.Never a head gasket.Charlie