Permatex has been making automotive sealants and gasket compounds since 1909. With dozens of products in their lineup, here's exactly which one to reach for every time.
RTV Silicone Gasket Makers
Permatex Ultra Black (Most Popular)
The #1 selling RTV silicone gasket maker. Sensor-safe, low-odor formula. Resists engine fluids and temperatures up to 500�F. The go-to for oil pans, valve covers, timing covers, and differential covers.
- Temperature range: -65�F to +500�F
- Best for: Oil pan gaskets, valve cover gaskets, timing covers, differential covers
- Sensor safe: Yes - won't damage O2 sensors
Permatex Ultra Copper
High-temp RTV for applications exceeding Ultra Black's range. The copper color is iconic - often specified by manufacturers for extreme heat zones.
- Temperature range: -65�F to +700�F intermittent
- Best for: Exhaust manifold gaskets, high-performance engine applications, turbo outlets
Permatex Ultra Grey
Rigid, high-torque formulation that won't squeeze out under bolt pressure. Ideal for rigid flanges where the gasket needs to maintain its thickness.
- Best for: Transmission pans, axle housings, rigid metal-to-metal flanges
Permatex Blue RTV (Form-A-Gasket)
Original Permatex blue silicone. Best for supplementing (not replacing) paper and cork gaskets - apply a thin bead where gaskets tend to seep at the corners.
Thread Sealants & Compounds
Permatex Thread Sealant with PTFE
Prevents leaks on NPT pipe threads, hydraulic fittings, and fuel system fittings. The PTFE formula lubricates during assembly and seals under pressure. Temperature rated to 400�F.
Permatex High-Temperature Thread Compound
Anti-seize and thread sealant for spark plugs, exhaust studs, and oxygen sensor threads. Prevents galling and seizing on high-temperature fasteners - essential for aluminum heads.
Gasket Removers & Prep
Permatex Gasket Remover Spray
Chemical gasket remover that softens and loosens old gasket material. Spray on, wait 10-15 minutes, scrape off - dramatically reduces cleanup time vs mechanical removal alone.
Which Permatex for Common Jobs
| Job | Product |
|---|---|
| Oil pan gasket | Ultra Black |
| Valve cover gasket | Ultra Black |
| Timing cover | Ultra Black |
| Exhaust manifold | Ultra Copper |
| Transmission pan | Ultra Grey |
| Pipe thread fittings | Thread Sealant with PTFE |
| Spark plug threads | High-Temp Thread Compound |
| Supplement paper gasket | Blue RTV |
Application Tips
- Clean surfaces thoroughly - old RTV or gasket material must be completely removed
- Apply a continuous 1/8" bead - inside bolt holes, not outside them
- Assemble within 10 minutes of application - skin forms quickly
- Wait 1 hour before adding fluids, 24 hours before full pressure testing
Shop Permatex Products
We carry the complete Permatex lineup including Ultra Black, Ultra Copper, Ultra Grey, thread sealants, and gasket removers.
