Opelotus

I did a TB/WP service about 4,000 miles ago (US '84). Water bridge was removed - I ordered new gaskets from Pelican Parts but two were the wrong ones (I needed the rubber style that fits into the groove on each end of the water bridge, I got the paper style gasket, part numbers were NLA/superceded or something, I didn't know. The main O-ring and t-stat gaskets were correct and don't leak). Parents were giving me a hard time, tired of me using their spare car, so I left the old gaskets in and put some Ultra Grey RTV on them as well. Worked for awhile, but now it is leaking. My question is this: when I pull it apart, is there any chance that the paper style will work? If not, where can I get the correct shaped rubber ones? OR - I have a water bridge off of a 78/79 M28/03 motor which uses the paper style gasket, will this fit the '84 heads, and what is done with the second air bleed port on the back of it? Will also be replacing the 4 mounting bolts, not sure where to get these. If this all sounds confusing I can post pictures.

123quattro

I'm running paper gaskets on a O-ring water bridge without issue. I did liberally apply RTV though.

Bart-Jan

I had a similar problem, but the aluminium around the groove was almost deteriorated. I ended up cleaning the groove with a dremel and filled the groove with what we call 'fluid metal'. It's 2 komponent epoxy resin with small metal particles in it. Together with this, I made some thick paper gaskets and used stainless steel allen bolts, which are much easier to remove and re-install again. I did use some gasket sealant and it works fine!

Opelotus

So if I do it correctly, I should be able to use the paper gaskets with the grooved water bridge without leaks (if using RTV also)? Are the rubber gaskets hard to find? Will the large rubber O-ring that fits into the block need replacement again? It is only ~4,500 miles and 6 months old.

Bart-Jan

I believe Rus has some upgraded O-rings as well; I wouldn't leave them blank, if you don't go the route I did.

ROG100

The Silicone water bridge gaskets for the late 84 to 86 16v cars are NLA but I had a batch made if you need them.
A lot of my International customers need them.
They are $5 each and can ship First Class for $2.50.
Let me know if I can help you?

Opelotus

Sounds good Roger, I can't believe that those gaskets are already NLA. I was actually making a list of things to order from you in the next week, do you also have new allen head bolts for the bridge? I was also told by someone that you have replacement plastic socket inserts for the front shifter cup, it this true? I will probably shoot you an email sometime soon with the completed parts list so I can get an idea of how much all the stuff I need will cost.

Would anyone recommend that I replace the paper gaskets for the driver side head blockoff plate (back of engine) and heater hose neck when the coolant is drained? I am afraid of snapping bolts for nothing since they are not leaking yet, but on the otherhand I would like to clean/antisieze the bolts to prevent future problems.

ROG100

We carry most parts 928 related.
I have the bolts for the water bridge and the gaskets as well as the forward shifter plastic insert.

I would replace the gaskets.

Opelotus

Thanks, since I already have the paper gasket, may as well use them. Now it's time to put together my parts list...