Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) timing cover gasket concern

[Ncostello]

I was of the opinion that the timing cover could be sealed with the Cummins grey silicon without a gasket. I've also read here where some liked using the gasket and sealant. Mine did not have a gasket installed from the factory and my Dodge manual makes no reference to a gasket. I'd rather not use one. However Cummins told me today that I needed the gasket because they have never seen an ISB yet that didn't have the gasket.



So I bought one anyway along with my front seal and Cummins grey silicon RTV. Anyone else ever take the cover off and not have a gasket from the factory?



I've got some nice long stud bolts that I'm going to put in the block to line up the cover with. That way it will go on straight and the RTV will line right up without shifting.

 

[thouse]

When I took my cover off it only had Cummins grey silicon on it. I put it back that way, no leaks yet. I also found that I have the new style case.

 

[Ncostello]

Same thing on my truck. I'm still gonna use penetrating loc-tite on my dowel pin even through it has the improved case. I was able to drive it back in with some medium tapping force. It moved 0. 02".



But like you said I too only had the Cummins grey silicon on my cover. Looked real nice and didn't leak a drop. I bought some of the Cummins stuff just incase I decide to not use the gasket. I cant see the point of using silicon and a gasket. Maybe some gasket sealer or high tack to hold the gasket in place but not RTV and the gasket. Just more of a mess to me personally.

 

[B9Mile]

When I bought my new crankshaft seal about a month ago, the parts guy at Cummins NW said it just had the gray silicone sealant, and not a gasket.



My customized parts catalog did not list a gasket for the front cover. I haven't taken the cover off yet. I should get to that before too long.