G M hydro matic trans.

[Viator Trudeau]

When removing and replacing the oil pan of transmissions in order to spread the pressures more evenly between cap screws, metal strips apex. 1" long used to be available to apply even pressure to the gasket, are those available.

V.Trudeau

[mgbeda]

The paragraph below (from an old post of mine) doesn't answer your question, but it may help you ensure a leak-free pan gasket.  I have seen those tabs you mention, but I don't know where to get them.  I think I've seen them on Chevy Valve covers.

When I worked as a mechanic in the early '80s we had a "procedure" for replacing pan gaskets.  What we'd do was to put the lip of the pan on a block of wood.  Then we'd place the ball end of a ball-peen hammer in the bolt hole.  Then we'd tap on that hammer with another hammer.  Wait a minute; let me draw you a picture.  Okay, I'm back, sorry that took so long.  Anyhow, the result was a very slight bulge right under each bolt head which would make the pan seal better.  Did this on valve covers too.  All I can say is it works for me.

-mB

[chrisntam]

Ok.  That's confusing.  Where do I tap?  What kind of hammer do I use?  What do I use to support the pan?

Just kidding!  Nice drawing, doesn't leave us much to figure out!  Good Job!

[Viator Trudeau]

To Mike, about the pressure strips, that's where I first saw them used,at that time Chev.valve cover were made of metal beer can stock thickness W/ only four screws holding them on.  My ELDOS have 6-8 all around and metal is heavy.

V. Trudeau

[mgbeda]

Maybe a Chevy parts place will have them then.

-mB

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

The biggest thing is not to over-tighten the bolts.

If you do them up to the correct torque, everything will work together.   Doing them up too tight will just twist everything out of alignment, and that is when leaks occur.

Before reinstalling the pan, just make sure that the flange is flat.

Bruce.