Gasketing - Vermont Castings Defiant 1945 Service Manual

GASKETING

If you are replacing gaskets as part of standard maintenance, refer to the Maintenance
Section of the Owner's Guide.
If you are replacing all gaskets as while re-building a firebox, follow the instructions given
below. Prepare parts carefully. Channels must be free of old gasketing, cement and paint,
and free of dust.
Use high quality gasket cement.
Work in an area where there is plenty of light and a level work surface. Wear gloves and
protective eyewear.
If you will install gaskets on clean, new parts, start with step 3. If you are going to re-gasket
old parts, they will need to be cleaned. Start with step 1.
1. Remove old gaskets. If the ends of the gasket meet, note where the joint is.
2. Clean the channels. Use a hammer and cold chisel or screwdriver to remove old cement.
Vacuum the channel to remove dust.
3. Choose the correct size gasket. Cut it to the right length, allowing an inch extra for
trimming.
4. Wipe the channel to be gasketed with a damp cloth. Place an unbroken 1/8" bead of
cement in the channel. Avoid using too much cement. The cement should not saturate
the gasket, just hold it in place.
5. Starting with one end, lightly press the gasket into the cemented channel. Trim excess
gasket with shears or side cutting pliers. Do not leave any ragged ends. If the ends of the
gasket meet, there should be no gaps or overlaps. Do not stretch the gasket as this will
make it too thin. A thin gasket may not make a good seal.
6. If possible, place the gasketed part against the surface it will meet. This will seat the
gasket evenly.
7. Clean any excess cement that has squeezed out around the gasket.
8. After installing new gaskets, it may be necessary to make adjustments on the damper or
load door. Refer to your Owner's Guide.