I recently came by a couple of complete engine overhaul gasket sets as well as numerous other rocker cover, side cover, etc., cork gaskets. I am sure the head gaskets and most paper gaskets and exhaust gaskets are still usable but what about the cork ones? They seem O.K. - not brittle and still pliable but will they hold up in use? Should I soak them in water before use to "rejuvenate" them? It would seem a shame to throw them away but even a greater shame to use them and then find out they wouldn't do the job. I don't need these right now but would like to be prepared in case I suddenly need one after I get my car running. Thanks. Stuart

Thru the years I have soaked several old oil pan and side cover gaskets that were over 50 years old.Most were shrunk at least 1/2 inch or more.I start with hot water and found that it takes about an hour for them to get back to "size"...I wipe off the excess water and install them before they dry.Have had no problems.

thanks, gene...good info...I've a bunch of old cork gaskets and wasn't sure if I was going to use them...now I know...


epi

Thanks Gene. As I figure it, the ones I have are no more than 15 or 20 years old. I don't have more than a few dollars tied up in the lot but they are probably worth several hundred if they are all usable. It is nice to know they are! Stuart

I prefer the old cork gaskets to the more modern cork/neoprene composition gaskets for most applications.The cork is softer and more forgiving when bolting up sheetmetal to smooth casting parts - such as the side covers and oil pans.