I'm going to be replacing the gasket on my trans. fluid pan soon and was wondering if anyone knew the proper torque on the bolts. I found in the Chilton's repair manual the torque specs for the oil pan to be in ft. lbs., but thought I heard somewhere the trans. fluid pan might need to be torqued in inch lbs.

Also, what are the best gaskets to use on the oil/trans. pans? I hear FelPro types do not hold up too well, but that could be because of other issues (over/under tightening, inadequate sealer).

Thank you

[This message has been edited by Brent7088 (edited 05-27-2009).]

The GM shop manual says 8 lb-ft. To convert, multiply by 12, ie 96 lb-in. Sorry, can't help with the gaskets.

[This message has been edited by Bloozberry (edited 05-27-2009).]

I always use Felpro and don't have any issues. Make sure the surfaces are completely clean. I don't use any sealer or RTV and I don't use a torque wrench. I use a 1/4" drive ratchet so I don't run the risk of torquing too tight or possibly stripping out the aluminum threads. Just make sure you tighten the bolts in a pattern. I think there are 16 bolts so I usually snug one and then count five more bolts and tighten that one continuing in a circle and eventually you get to all of them. Then I go around again making sure they are all nice and snug.

I agree with above. I also use high tack sealant to hold the gasket in place. I don't use a torque wrench, but just tighten it enough to hold the pan in there (yeah... it is by feel).

J.

Yeah, hi tack is a good idea although sometimes the gasket holes are slightly smaller so the bolts will stay in place when installing the pan.

Thank you all for the suggestions. I may be replacing the oil pan gasket too. That's a bear to take off from what I understand. According to the Chilton's manual, the only things that need removed first are the starter and the flywheel sheild (for V6). It all sounds easy and straightforward but I know once I dig in, it'll be a lot different than just reading a book.

Thanks again!

Also it was recommended to me to drive the car after completed to get it warm and check the torque again, mine required a little more tightening.
sparx22