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NL Frequently asked questions and answers about Steel Seal®
How does Steel Seal work?
Steel Seal is compatible with all vehicles that have a closed cooling water circuit and is filled into the cooling system via the radiator or expansion tank. The engine is started and brought up to operating temperature. During the warm-up phase, Steel Seal is initially distributed evenly in the cooling system and enters the engine's cooling water circuit after the thermostat is opened and shortly before the operating temperature is reached. Once full operating temperature has been reached, Steel Seal starts to existing hairline cracks, leaks and leaks on the cylinder head gasket, cylinder head or engine block to seal. The sealing process takes place accuratebecause it only in the area of the cylinder head gasket, the hottest area of the cooling system, the temperature required to cure Steel Seal through a thermochemical reaction is reached. This "bonding process" thus takes place precise and deposit-free. This means that a leaking cylinder head gasket can be repaired without having to be replaced. The vehicle is again ready to drive and in the shortest possible time symptom-free back on the road.
Is Steel Seal clogging or damaging the cooling system?
No. Steel Seal is a clear liquid without solids. It does not contain any particles or fibers like other sealants on the market, which could damage or clog the engine cooling connections, the radiator or the heat exchanger in the worst case. As Steel Seal alone reacts to heat and the chemical bonding process (i.e. the "curing") only takes place at temperatures of 110°C and above, Steel Seal can, when properly applied accurate seal where there are cracks or leaks in the engine. This is because the high temperatures that cause Steel Seal to harden are only reached there. The higher the prevailing temperatures at these points, the faster Steel Seal hardens.
If the cooling system is contaminated or other additives have been used in the vehicle, we recommend rinsing the cooling system with clear water before applying Steel Seal. This prevents unwanted reactions. Never leave the vehicle unattended during application and always keep an eye on the engine temperature. Turn off the engine immediatelyif at any time during the application it should threaten to overheat.
How do you use Steel Seal?
Note the following points for optimum results when using Steel Seal:
- The Correct dosage should always be observed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions:
- Up to 2.4 liters capacity = 1 bottle
- 2.4 to 4.0 liter displacement = 2 bottles
- Over 4.0 liters displacement = bottles
- Steel Seal Only in conjunction with clean coolant (commercially available coolant in a ratio of 3:1 water to antifreeze or even more aqueous).
- During use, always pay attention to the Engine temperature display pay attention. The engine should fully reach the intended operating temperature when idling, but should not exceed it at any time. If there is a risk of overheating, the engine must be switched off immediately!
Detailed step-by-step instructions with video and what to do with Overpressure in the cooling system or with Water in the engine oil you will find in the section Steel Seal instructions for use.
Does the cooling system need to be flushed before using Steel Seal? (Video)
Steel Seal works best with pure water (100% distilled water) or an aqueous coolant/antifreeze mixture in a 3:1 ratio. If antifreeze is used, it should be not to Longlife or Extended variants (often referred to in the trade as "+" or "++") but conventional radiator antifreeze (e.g. 2 or 3 year old ethylene glycol). If other additives or sealants have previously been used or the coolant is contaminated (look in the expansion tank), we recommend checking the cooling system before use. rinse with clear water and then fill with fresh coolant.
How long does Steel Seal last?
The repair with Steel Seal is permanent. In contrast to various radiator sealants on the market, which are based on fillers (granules, fibers, etc.) and which deform or dissolve over time, Steel Seal is fiber-free and has a thermal effect.
After curing in the affected areas of the cylinder-head gasket, Steel Seal is extremely resistant to temperature and pressure fluctuations in the engine and therefore lasts permanently. Depending on the age and condition of the engine, cracks may reappear in the engine at a later date. For this reason, we have decided to offer our customers free registration for our Warranty Plus (within 14 days from the date of purchase), the option of one free replacement product per vehicle. This means that the process can be repeated free of charge at a later date if necessary. No other product or manufacturer in this sector offers this.
Note: The warranty can only be redeemed once per vehicle and only if the warranty conditions are met (e.g. correct dosage at the first application). You can find the complete warranty conditions and required proof on our page Money-back guarantee.
Can I repair the cylinder head gasket myself?
The answer is: Yes! There is still a widespread opinion among many car mechanics that sealants are at best a short-term solution for sealing leaks in the cooling system. This opinion is not unfounded and stems from mixed experiences with various sealants from the past, all of which are based on fillers (fibers, granules, etc.). These swell up at leaks in the cooling system and only seal leaks for a short time, if at all. They also carry the risk of depositing in undesirable places in the cooling system.
Our product Steel Seal on the other hand is a fiber-free smart repair solution which are based on thermal basis and thus specifically prevents leaking cylinder-head gaskets Permanently effective seals. More about the exact Mode of action and application from Steel Seal can be found here: Head gasket repair with Steel Seal
How can I tell if the cylinder head gasket is broken?
There are some clear signs and symptoms of a broken cylinder head gasket that even a layman can detect within minutes. The following symptoms alone or in combination are clear indications of a leaking head gasket.
- Cooling water loss = Loss of cooling water that cannot be detected from the outside, as it enters the combustion chamber and is also burned there. A small amount of cooling water must always be topped up as it constantly disappears.
- White smoke from the exhaust = The cooling water that enters the combustion chamber is burnt and evaporates when the engine is started. Heavy white smoke (= water vapor) can be seen in the exhaust.
- Oil in the cooling water = brownish shimmering surface when looking into the radiator or expansion tank.
- Cooling water in the engine oil = Milky foam-like (yellowish) substance on the inside of the oil cap
- Cooling water in the combustion chambers ("cylinders") of the engine = white smoke from the exhaust on cold start
- Exhaust gases in the cooling water = Bubble formation in the cooling water, extremely hard cooling water hoses, high pressure when opening the radiator cap
Here you will find a detailed description of the typical Symptoms of a defective cylinder head gasket.
Why does a cylinder head gasket break?
The causes of a leak Cylinder head gasket are manifold. The thermostat and the water pump often play a major role and the failure of these components and, as a result, a brief overheating of the engine are among the most common causes of damage to the cylinder-head gasket. The thermostat and the water pump are typical wearing parts of the cooling system. If they no longer function properly, this negatively affects the function of the cooling system. This can mean that the heat produced by a combustion engine can no longer be dissipated efficiently. The engine overheats and just a few seconds are enough to cause damage to the head gasket or the water pump. Cylinder head cause. The "cylinder-head gasket burns out". Of course, signs of material fatigue can also occur with time and the corresponding mileage. The constant warming up and cooling down of the engine in combination with the high compression pressures from the combustion chambers can cause fine hairline cracks on the cylinder head or engine block. These increase in size over time until the first symptoms, usually in the form of coolant loss, become apparent.
What are the advanced signs of a broken cylinder head gasket?
One defective Cylinder head gasket can one Variety from problems on Vehicle cause. Here are advanced Signs, on the one pay attention should:
1. Overheating of the Motors: Through one defective Cylinder head gasket can Coolant in the Combustion chamber of the Motors reach and there burn. This can to the Overheating of the Motors and to heavy Engine damage lead.
2. White Smoke development: When due to one defective Head gasket Coolant in the Combustion chamber reached, can whiter Smoke from the Exhaust exit. The could on one leaky Head gasket indicate.
3. Oil loss: Through one defective Cylinder head gasket can Oil in the Cooling circuit reach and itself with the Coolant mix. This can to Oil loss and Engine damage lead.
4. Weak Motor power: One damaged Cylinder head gasket can the Motor power impair. This can itself in Shape from irregular Idle, slower Acceleration or more uneven Power delivery while the Journey express.
5. Discolored Spark plugs:
Also one defective Cylinder head gasket can to one Spark plug discoloration lead. These can for example oil or itself discolor.
One burnt out Cylinder head gasket is a serious Problem. Therefore is it important, on these Signs to pay attention and itself so fast as possible qualified Seek advice, to the Problem to fix.
Can I continue driving with a defective head gasket?
Simply continuing to drive with a defective cylinder head gasket is negligent, dangerous and can lead to serious engine damage.
What are the dangers?
- If combustion gases enter the cooling system, the cooling capacity is reduced. This can lead to further overheating and damage to the engine.
- Cooling water in the engine oil impairs the lubricity of the oil, which can cause bearing damage.
- If cooling water enters the combustion chamber and can no longer be compressed, this leads to water hammer. The piston loses its stroke movement and severely damages the valves, connecting rod and crankshaft bearings within a few seconds. The engine is destroyed.
- There is a particular danger if combustion gases are released into the ambient air: This can result in engine fires, smoke development and toxic exhaust fumes through the interior ventilation of the driver's cab.
Here you can read 7 more reasons why you shouldn't work with continue driving with defective cylinder head gasket should.
Conclusion: The cylinder-head gasket is a component of the engine that is subject to high mechanical and thermal stress. You should take the first signs of a defect seriously and act quickly to avoid consequential damage and an expensive engine repair. However, before you hastily have the defective head gasket replaced, try Steel Seal first. The product offers a cost-effective way to repair a leaking cylinder head or damaged head gasket.
What can I do if my engine won't warm up? (Video)
What should I do if my car is leaking coolant?
Starting with a broken water pump, a defective thermostat or a leaking radiator, an unexpected loss of water in the car can have various causes. If the cooling water loss occurs via a leaking cylinder head gasket or a crack in the cylinder head, there are usually no external signs, such as a noticeable water leak or a puddle under the vehicle. The loss of cooling water is slow at first. Difficulties with cold starts and white smoke from the exhaust are often indications that cooling water is entering the combustion chamber. Steel Seal was developed precisely for this problem. It closes leaks in the engine cooling circuit and restores the function of the cylinder head gasket or cylinder head.
Do I need to flush my cooling system before using Steel Seal?
We recommend flushing the cooling system with clear water (without flushing agent!) and refilling with fresh coolant before using Steel Seal, especially if the coolant is very old or contaminated or other additives have been used. If in doubt, we recommend that workshops flush their customers' cooling systems before every use of Steel Seal® to avoid unwanted reactions such as blockages in the heat exchanger.
My heating no longer gets warm after using it. My heating radiator is probably blocked. What should I do?
We always recommend rinsing the cooling system with clear water or a radiator flush (for heavy soiling) before use. Steel Seal should then be applied with clean, clear water. In this way, clumping can be avoided from the outset.
What can I do if it has happened?
If all parts are still installed, rinse the cooling system and, if necessary, the heating radiator separately several times with clear water. This solves the problem in the vast majority of cases.
If a more stubborn blockage has occurred and stronger clumps have formed due to a reaction with other foreign bodies in the cooling system, please proceed as follows:
Use caustic soda or a high quality drain cleaner such as "Draino Max Gel" or "Rorax" which contains sodium hydroxide. These can be added directly to the cooling system in the same way as Steel Seal. The sodium hydroxide is commercially available as a powder. Adding 3 tablespoons of it directly into the cooling system and running the engine for 10 minutes is enough to dissolve the clumps and solve the problem. Then rinse the cooling system again with water.
If the parts have already been removed (e.g. radiator, water pump, thermostat), mix the caustic soda solution with water and scrub the parts with it to remove any Steel Seal residue. You can simply leave the parts in a bucket with the caustic mixture or pipe cleaner to re-dissolve Steel Seal. We use both methods to clean our Steel Seal casting machines.
What can I do if cooling water is lost via the water pump?
In isolated cases, older water pumps may fail after application. However, the failure is not a direct result of Steel Seal, but a result of the restored water pressure in the cooling system. If the cooling system has been leaking for a long period of time, the pressure in the cooling system decreases and causes the sealing rings of the water pump to slacken. After the "normal" water pressure in the cooling system is restored as a result of a successful repair of the cylinder-head gasket by Steel Seal®, the water pump can fail because the rubber sealing rings no longer swell due to the loss of elasticity and no longer provide the necessary seal. In this case, you should replace the sealing rings of the water pump or install a new water pump.
Can I use Steel Seal if I have previously used other additives or sealants?
Yes, but be careful! The cooling system must be thoroughly rinsed with clear water before using Steel Seal, if other additives have been used, in order to avoid undesirable reactions and blockages in the cooling system. Do not use any detergents! There are a number of high-quality products on the market which, unlike Steel Seal, are based on fillers (metal particles or fibers) and can therefore fail and cause blockages in combination with Steel Seal. Caution:
What can I do if there is oil in the cooling water?
Oil in the cooling system or water in the oil (the latter can be recognized by a milky foam-like substance in the oil) indicates that the oil circuit and the cooling water circuit are touching at some point in the engine, most likely via a break or crack in the head gasket. In this case too, Steel Seal® has a good chance of sealing the cooling circuit to the outside. However, in the case of Oil in the cooling waterflush the entire cooling system before use and degrease it if necessary so as not to impair the effectiveness of Steel Seal. . Detailed step-by-step instructions can be found under: "Instructions for use"
Does Steel Seal help with oil loss at the cylinder head gasket?
Steel Seal does not seal pure oil leaks, but only coolant-related leaks at the head gasket (e.g. oil to coolant or water to oil). In the case of pure oil leaks (oil to the outside, oil to the combustion chamber), the only solution is to have the cylinder-head gasket replaced.
What can I do if my engine does not reach operating temperature?
With larger vehicles (especially diesel), it can happen that the engine does not reach its operating temperature when stationary, even after a long warm-up phase. In this case, you can do 2 things:
1. switch off the heating and fan in the vehicle.
2. carefully step on the gas pedal after you have filled in Steel Seal and let the engine run for a few minutes at approx. 1500 rpm. This should bring the engine up to operating temperature more quickly.
Caution: Once the engine has reached the operating temperature of approx. 90°C, do not subject it to any more compression (do not accelerate!) and carefully switch the fan back on without lowering the engine temperature again. Otherwise there is a possibility that Steel Seal will not be able to develop its effect before it has completely hardened.
Does Steel Seal deliver what it promises?
Yes, but don't trust us "blindly", read the numerous testimonials from satisfied customers, which can be found in our service blog, or find out more at one of the now over 300 renowned specialist car markets and car parts dealers across the country.
Because we trust our product so much, in addition to the 30-day money-back guarantee, we now even offer a lifetime guarantee for a replacement product (see "Warranty Plus"), provided you register your vehicle free of charge on our website within the first 14 days of purchase. So if your symptoms return after some time, you can repeat the application with Steel Seal free of charge.
Steel Seal delivers what it promises.
Can Steel Seal be used several times?
Yes, Steel Seal can be used repeatedly. If the typical symptoms of a defective cylinder-head gasket have not completely disappeared after the first application, it makes sense to reapply Steel Seal. Sometimes the damage is more advanced and requires a second application. If the recommended dosage was adhered to after the first application, the required amount of Steel Seal for the second application can be requested under our guarantee. You can choose between a refund of the purchase price or a free replacement product. You can find more information on our warranty conditions here.
Caution: Once the engine has reached the operating temperature of approx. 90°C, do not subject it to any more compression (do not accelerate!) and carefully switch the fan back on without lowering the engine temperature again. Otherwise there is a possibility that Steel Seal will not be able to develop its effect before it has completely hardened.
Does radiator antifreeze impair the effect of Steel Seal?
Yes, while Steel Seal can be used with all 'conventional' antifreezes, we recommend a high quality, two-year (blue) ethylene glycol radiator antifreeze. The coolant should be used for a Optimal effect at Steel Seal on a Ratio of 3:1 water to antifreeze can be diluted, or applied even more aqueous.
Important note: Use Steel Seal not with so-called "long-life" or "water-free" radiator antifreeze. These are often marked with a "+" or "++" on the market. This has a negative effect on the effectiveness of Steel Seal.
Further tips for optimal use from Steel Seal can be found at: Instructions for use
