Caught in the middle of a project and faced with the crucial decision of selecting the proper sealant? Permatex 51813 and 51817 on the shelf, each seemingly urging, “Pick me!” emerges as a common dilemma.
Determining the true savior for your work requires a closer look. Let’s explore the specifics of these two options to identify the champion sealant for your automotive or industrial project’s success.
What is Permatex 51813?
Permatex 51813, commonly known as Permatex Anaerobic Gasket Maker, is your go-to when you need a reliable seal without oxygen.
This sealant thrives in environments with scarce air, making it perfect for metal-to-metal connections that won’t see the light of day anytime soon.
Its magic lies in its ability to cure in the absence of air, especially between close-fitting metal surfaces. This makes it ideal for gearbox housings, engine casings, and similar applications where a durable, leak-proof seal is crucial. It’s a bit like that friend who’s always there for you, especially when you are in tight spots.
What is Permatex 51817?
On the other side, we have Permatex 51817, or as it’s also known, Permatex Anaerobic Flange Sealant. This one’s a bit of a show-off for filling gaps.
Designed for more extensive, less perfect fits, it provides a robust seal that cures in the absence of air. It’s remarkably competent at sealing flanges, including those that might experience a bit of movement or vibration.
Think of it as a flexible friend that is always ready to adapt, making it a superb choice for applications where thermal expansion, contraction, or minor surface imperfections might be a concern.
How Are They Different?
Chemical Composition
First, the chemical composition that makes up each of these gasket makers is like comparing two superheroes from the same universe – similar but unique powers.
Permatex 51813 boasts a formula that’s a tad more forgiving for materials sensitive to traditional gasket makers, while 51817 is designed with a beefier resistance to common automotive fluids.
Think of 51813 as the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man and 51817 as Wolverine, a bit more hardcore.
Application and Curing Time
Here’s where patience is a virtue. The 51813 is your go-to if you’re in a hurry, setting slightly faster than its counterpart.
It’s like choosing between instant coffee and brewing a whole pot; both get you to the same place, but one gets you there quicker. Meanwhile, 51817 asks for a smidge more time to cure, ensuring a bond ready to face more extreme conditions.
Viscosity and Ease of Use
Viscosity isn’t just a fun word; it plays a significant role in the application process. Permatex 51813 is a bit more fluid, making it a dream to apply in tighter spaces.
51817, conversely, is thicker, which means it stays where you put it, perfect for vertical applications where you don’t want it running off like a toddler with a marker.
How Are They Similar?
Designed for the Same Goal
Both 51813 and 51817 hail from the Permatex family and were designed with the same goal in mind – to seal and protect your engine’s components without a traditional gasket.
They’re like siblings who argue over who gets the front seat but end up harmoniously playing the same video games.
Resistance to Automotive Fluids
These two are like the dynamic duo against the arch-enemies of engines: oil, coolant, and transmission fluids.
They both offer superb resistance, ensuring leaks are as rare as a quiet moment in a house full of puppies. Whether you choose 51813 or 51817, you get a guardian against fluid leaks.
Temperature Tolerance
Both these gasket makers can withstand temperatures that would make most of us break a sweat.
They’re designed to endure the extreme heat and cold that engines go through, from freezing mornings to the heat of a summer road trip. It’s like they’re both wearing the same superhero cape, just in slightly different colors.
What’s better about Permatex 51813?
Permatex 51813 is the precision artist of the sealant world. Its ability to cure in tight spaces makes it the undisputed champion for applications requiring a thin yet potent seal.
It’s incredibly effective for ensuring that finely mated surfaces are sealed without the risk of leakage. For projects demanding absolute precision and a clean, professional finish, 51813 is your MVP.
It’s like having a secret weapon in your toolbox that guarantees success when the margins for error are razor-thin.
What’s better about Permatex 51817?
Permatex 51817, on the other hand, is the adaptable friend who’s always ready to roll with the punches. Its capability to fill larger gaps and accommodate minor surface imperfections makes it invaluable for situations where perfect fits are a luxury, not a guarantee.
The 51817 is all about flexibility and forgiveness, allowing you to achieve a robust, reliable seal even when the going gets tough.
If your project involves flanges that might laugh in the face of a lesser sealant, 51817 steps up to the plate, ready to deliver under pressure.
Who should get Permatex 51813 (and why)?
If the need for precision and perfection characterizes your projects, Permatex 51813 is your go-to. It’s perfect for engineers, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts who demand the highest performance and reliability from their sealants.
Whether assembling a high-performance engine or refurbishing a vintage gearbox, 51813 will ensure that every seal is just right every time.
Who should get Permatex 51817 (and why)?
For those who face unpredictable challenges and need a sealant that can adapt to various situations, Permatex 51817 is the answer.
It’s ideal for maintenance professionals, hobbyists, and anyone working on projects where surfaces may not always align perfectly. If you’re dealing with flanges, pipes, or housings that require a forgiving yet tough sealant, 51817 is your ally, ensuring a strong seal even in the face of imperfections.
Final Thoughts
So, you’re in good hands whether you’re leaning towards the quick-setting, slightly more fluid 51813 or the tough, stick-to-itiveness of 51817.
Remember, it’s not just about sealing those gaps; it’s about choosing the right sidekick for your automotive adventures.
And who knows? Maybe your car will thank you with a few extra miles or a bit more vroom under the hood. Happy tinkering!