oil filter and thermostat gasket questions

[G_Body_Enthusiast]

whats the part number for the longer AC delco filter for 3.8's? the short one is PF47. the fram number is 3800 i believe for the longer one (unless my memory has failed me again)

also do i really need to use a gasket to replace my thermostat? i'm taking off this tall iron POS housing off for a shorter stamped steelhousing off a 4.1 (from my old 82 GP)and while i do have gaskets i can use i'm just wondering if i really need them. also what sealant do you use? i have a tube of blue silicone and it does say for water necks but maybe if i can use something better i will. it is just a thermostat housing but i dont feel like messing it but the one time i yank the old one out and put the new one in.

 

[Bonnewagon]

I use a gasket AND a shmear of silicone on the housing. I despise coolant leaks.

 

[jrm81bu]

If memory serves me, the longer version of the pf47 is the pf52.

 

[G_Body_Enthusiast]

thank you both! much obliged.

 

[DrRansom442]

forget the gasket and just use sealer

 

[carmangary]

I just used a gasket last time I put mine in and it leaked for a few days then stopped. Weird.

 

[Bonnewagon]

Actually, some gaskets are supposed to swell up and seal. Like those thin black ones used on oil pumps or anything oily. They absorb oil and seal tight. You can see how good that works, eh?

 

[G_Body_Enthusiast]

well now...

i put the 4.1 thermostat housing on the 3.8 and while it fits just fine it interferes with the fuel line so i'm going to have to take it off and modify a 3.8 housing to shorten it so the upper radiator hose doesnt touch the hood. WTF makes a 6 inch tall thermostat housing anyway? very retarded.

i'm gonna be so glad when i get rid of this engine. it is more trouble than it's worth but i needed to replace the thermostat anyway.