Difficulty Level

Tools/Supplies Needed:

• oil
• razor knife
• ruler
• flat cardboard/paperboard
• nut and bolt

Procedure:

• first apply a small amount of oil with your finger on the surface you want to copying
• stamp that surface onto the cardboard, typically on the inside face of the cardboard where there is no shinny printed surface as it transfers better
• leave it there for a moment, applying medium pressure, then remove
• you should be able to see the outlined surface
• if you leave it there for a moment longer, the oil will soak in and become darker, therefore being easier to see
• using a razor knife, cut the outer and inner edges of the gasket
• be sure you use a sharp knife, otherwise the cardboard will drag and create a rough edge
• for the bolt holes, we can cut those using a nut and bolt to the appropriate size
• place the nut below where the hole should be, then place the bolt on the other side and hammer it down
• you may need to rotate the bolt around the edge of the hole to help cut the cardboard
• once you've cut the one, if possible install the gasket on the object and insert a bolt through it to align it into place
• then proceed to punch out the next hole in place, this ensure there will be no alignment issues with the bolt holes.
• when installing the newly made gasket, you can apply some gasket sealant, but it isn't necessary
• ensure that both sides of the gasket surface on the surround objects are smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Will the fuel damage the cardboard?

No it will not.

How long will these type of homemade gaskets last?

If done correctly, they will last as long as a purchased gasket.