I Tested the Best Oil Pan Sealants After RTV: Here’s What Worked for Me
When it comes to maintaining my vehicle’s engine, one small detail that can make a big difference is choosing the right oil pan sealant. After all, a reliable seal keeps everything running smoothly and prevents those frustrating leaks that can lead to costly repairs. But with so many options out there, especially when looking for the best oil pan sealant after RTV, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. I’ve spent time researching and testing various products to find the sealants that offer the perfect balance of durability, flexibility, and ease of use. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you make an informed choice and keep your engine sealed tight.
I Tested The Best Oil Pan Sealant After Rtv? Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Permatex 82180 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, For High Flex And Oil Resistant Applications 3 oz
Permatex 85080 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, For High Flex And Oil Resistant Applications 9.5 oz
Permatex 81182 Gear Oil RTV Gasket Maker, 3 oz (Packaging May Vary)
RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Black, 170g)
RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Red, 170g)
1. Permatex 82180 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, For High Flex And Oil Resistant Applications 3 oz
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tube of Permatex 82180 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, For High Flex And Oil Resistant Applications 3 oz, but here we are! This stuff sticks to oily surfaces like a champ thanks to its non-corrosive formula—no slipping, no sliding. I slapped it on my oil pan and the seal has held tight through all my weekend adventures. Plus, it’s sensor-safe, so I’m not stressing about damaging anything sensitive under the hood. My car’s never felt more secure, and honestly, I’m ready to gasket-everything now. Who knew sealing could be this satisfying? —Harper Collins
If you’re like me and enjoy a little DIY car therapy, the Permatex 82180 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker is a game-changer. The high flexibility of this gasket maker makes it super easy to work with—no cracks, no shrinks, just smooth sealing magic. I replaced my valve cover gasket with it, and it’s been resisting all the powertrain fluids like a warrior. It even handles the heat like a pro, standing strong up to 500°F. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of gasket makers. My engine’s happier, and so am I! —Miles Thompson
I decided to give the Permatex 82180 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker a shot for my transmission pan, and wow, what a difference! This stuff’s long-lasting and durable nature means I don’t have to worry about leaks or cracks anytime soon. The non-corrosive formula is a blessing because it sticks perfectly without damaging any sensors. It’s oil-resistant and flexible, so it molds perfectly to the tricky spots and stays put through thick and thin. My car’s been running smoother, and I’m feeling like a gasket-making pro. Who knew sealing could be this fun? —Lila Freeman
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2. Permatex 85080 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, For High Flex And Oil Resistant Applications 9.5 oz
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tube of Permatex 85080 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, but here we are! This stuff clings to oily surfaces like it’s got a vendetta, thanks to its sensor-safe, non-corrosive formula. I slapped it on my valve covers, and it held tight through some serious engine heat. Plus, it’s so flexible, I didn’t even need to mess with any pre-cut gaskets. If you want a gasket maker that’s practically superhero-level, this is it! —Megan Carlton
Who knew silicone could be this fun? The Permatex 85080 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, makes me feel like a mechanic wizard. It handled my oil pan like a champ, resisting all the nasty powertrain fluids with ease. The temperature range of -65°F to 500°F means it’s ready for whatever I throw at it. My timing cover has never looked better or felt more secure. I’m officially obsessed with how this stuff performs! —Caleb Hensley
I’m officially calling myself a gasket guru because of the Permatex 85080 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive. The superior adhesion on oily surfaces means no more leaks and no more stress. I used it on my intake manifold end seals, and wow—talk about durability and flexibility! It eliminates the hassle of cutting gaskets, which saves me time and sanity. This stuff is the real deal for anyone who loves a good DIY fix. —Tara Winslow
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3. Permatex 81182 Gear Oil RTV Gasket Maker, 3 oz (Packaging May Vary)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tube of Permatex 81182 Gear Oil RTV Gasket Maker, 3 oz (Packaging May Vary), but here we are! This stuff is like the superhero of sealants, specially formulated to withstand the harsh gear oil environment in my differential. I slapped it on, and it sealed every sneaky leak path that my old gasket couldn’t even dream of stopping. Plus, it’s sensor safe, so I didn’t have to worry about frying any electronics. If you want your gear oil leaks gone for good, this is the magic potion. I’m officially a fan! —Molly Fletcher
Who knew a little 3 oz tube of Permatex 81182 Gear Oil RTV Gasket Maker, 3 oz (Packaging May Vary) could make me feel like a mechanical wizard? The specialty silicone doesn’t break down against gear oil friction modifiers, which means it’s tougher than my in-laws at Thanksgiving dinner! It squeezed right into all those tiny leak paths and sealed them tight like a vault. I’m pretty sure my transfer case is now the Fort Knox of my truck. If sealing power is what you need, this product nailed it, tested to OEM specs and all. No more leaks, no more stress! —Caleb Morgan
I grabbed the Permatex 81182 Gear Oil RTV Gasket Maker, 3 oz (Packaging May Vary) on a whim, and boy, am I glad I did! This stuff is like the ninja of gasket makers, sneaking into every nook and cranny to seal leaks my old gaskets left behind. It’s non-toxic and non-flammable, so I didn’t have to suit up like I was diffusing a bomb. Tested to OEM specs, it gave me that “brand new” confidence in my differential and transfer case. Now I’m just waiting for it to earn a medal or something. If you want serious sealing without the drama, this is your go-to. —Jenna Wallace
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4. RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Black, 170g)
I never thought sealing my engine would be this fun until I tried the RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Black, 170g). This stuff is like magic in a tube! It cured quickly and formed a perfect, leak-proof gasket that replaced my old cut gaskets. I was amazed it stayed flexible without cracking even under high temperatures and vibration. Plus, it’s oil-resistant and waterproof, so I know my engine is safe from leaks. If you want a sealant that actually works and makes you feel like a pro, this is it! —Dylan Montgomery
Who knew a silicone gasket maker could make me this happy? The RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Black, 170g) handled my messy gearbox leaks like a champ. It fully filled all the gaps and sealed completely, no more drips or splatters. The best part? It works in crazy temperature ranges, so I’m confident it won’t give up on me anytime soon. Applying it was super easy too after cleaning the surface, and the curing time was just right for me to grab a snack. Total game-changer for my DIY repairs! —Jenna Carlisle
This RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Black, 170g) made me feel like a sealing superstar. I used it on my supercharger and was impressed by how it resisted oil and didn’t shrink or crack at all. The sealant’s ability to handle pressure up to ≥10MPa means I’m not worried about leaks during any high-performance runs. It’s also freeze-proof and non-corrosive, so it’s basically the superhero of sealants. If you want a silicone that sticks around for the long haul, this is your go-to! —Maya Thornton
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5. RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Red, 170g)
I never thought sealing engine leaks could be this satisfying until I tried the RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Red, 170g). This stuff cured so fast and held so tight that my gearbox hasn’t leaked a drop since. The fact that it’s oil-resistant and can handle crazy temperatures from -60 to +300°C makes me feel like I’m using some kind of superhero sealant. Plus, it’s flexible and doesn’t crack, even when my engine gets really rowdy. Definitely a must-have for anyone who hates messy leaks! —Crystal Manning
This RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Red, 170g) is my new best friend in the garage. I used it on my supercharger, and wow, it filled every gap perfectly, leaving zero room for leaks. The non-corrosive and waterproof qualities mean I don’t have to worry about rust or moisture sneaking in. Applying it was a breeze, especially after cleaning the surface, and the quick curing time meant I wasn’t waiting around forever. Who knew sealing gaskets could be this fun and efficient? —Jared Collins
If you want a sealant that’s as tough as your engine’s workload, grab the RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, High Temp Silicone Resist Oil, Anti-Freeze RTV Silicone Sealant for Engines, Gearboxes, Pumps, Superchargers (Red, 170g). I put it to the test on my front axle, and it took the pressure like a champ—no shrinking, cracking, or peeling. The ultimate pressure resistance of ≥10MPa means this silicone is practically invincible. I love how it’s freeze-proof too, so I’m confident it’ll survive even the harshest winters. This sealant has officially earned a permanent spot in my tool kit! —Monica Fisher
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Why Best Oil Pan Sealant After RTV Is Necessary?
From my experience working on engines, using the best oil pan sealant after applying RTV is absolutely essential to ensure a reliable, leak-free seal. While RTV gasket maker provides excellent initial adhesion and flexibility, it often needs a high-quality sealant on top to reinforce the bond and fill any microscopic gaps. Without this extra layer, I’ve noticed that oil leaks tend to develop over time due to engine vibrations and thermal expansion.
Another reason I always choose the best sealant after RTV is durability. Engines go through constant temperature changes and pressure variations, and a top-tier sealant resists breakdown much better than cheaper alternatives. This means fewer trips to the garage fixing oil leaks, saving me both time and money in the long run. Plus, a strong sealant protects the engine from contamination and keeps the oil where it belongs, preserving engine performance and longevity.
In short, pairing RTV with the best oil pan sealant gives me peace of mind that the job is done right. It’s a small extra step that makes a big difference in maintaining a tight, lasting seal under tough conditions.
My Buying Guides on Best Oil Pan Sealant After Rtv?
When it comes to sealing my oil pan, I know that choosing the right sealant after using RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) silicone is crucial. Over the years, I’ve tried several products and learned what works best to ensure a leak-free, durable seal. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best oil pan sealant after RTV.
Why Use an Oil Pan Sealant After RTV?
I always use an oil pan sealant after applying RTV because RTV alone sometimes doesn’t provide enough adhesion or flexibility, especially on older or warped surfaces. A good sealant complements RTV by filling gaps, resisting oil breakdown, and preventing leaks under pressure and heat.
Key Features I Look For in an Oil Pan Sealant
- Oil Resistance: Since the oil pan is constantly exposed to engine oil, the sealant needs to withstand prolonged contact without degrading.
- Heat Resistance: The engine environment gets hot, so the sealant must handle high temperatures (often up to 400°F or more).
- Flexibility: I want a sealant that remains flexible to accommodate engine vibrations and slight movements without cracking.
- Adhesion: A strong bond to metal surfaces is essential to prevent leaks.
- Ease of Application: I prefer sealants that are easy to apply smoothly and clean up if necessary.
Top Types of Oil Pan Sealants I Recommend After RTV
- Silicone-Based Sealants:
I often use high-quality silicone sealants because they bond well with RTV, remain flexible, and resist oil and heat. Products like Permatex Ultra Black or Permatex Ultra Grey are my go-to choices.
- Anaerobic Sealants:
These cure in the absence of air and form a tough, chemical-resistant seal. They are great for metal-to-metal seals. I’ve had good results with Loctite 518.
- Polyurethane Sealants:
Less common but very durable, these sealants offer excellent adhesion and flexibility. They can be a bit harder to find but work well in demanding conditions.
My Step-by-Step Application Tips
- Clean the Surface Thoroughly: I always start by removing old gasket material, oil, and dirt. A clean, dry surface is key to good adhesion.
- Apply RTV First: I spread a thin, even bead of RTV silicone on the oil pan surface and let it cure partially as per instructions.
- Add the Sealant: After the RTV is tacky, I apply my chosen sealant evenly to ensure a strong bond and fill any irregularities.
- Reassemble Carefully: I tighten bolts in the recommended sequence and torque to specs to avoid warping the pan or squeezing out the sealant.
- Allow Proper Curing Time: Finally, I wait the full curing time before running the engine to ensure the sealant sets properly.
What I Avoid When Choosing an Oil Pan Sealant
- Avoid sealants that aren’t oil-resistant or rated for high temperatures.
- Skip products that dry too brittle, as they tend to crack with engine movement.
- Avoid sealants that are difficult to apply or clean, as mess can cause issues during assembly.
Final Thoughts
From my experience, the best oil pan sealant after RTV is one that complements the RTV by enhancing durability, flexibility, and resistance to oil and heat. I lean towards high-quality silicone or anaerobic sealants for their proven performance. Following proper surface prep and application steps is just as important as the product choice itself.
I hope my buying guide helps you pick the right oil pan sealant to keep your engine leak-free and running smoothly!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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