Installing Nails question

[gregaba]

I was watching a video on u tube about Prestige Motors building a Shelby block FE engine.
They torqued down the rear main and then hammered in the nails.
I have all ways installed the nails with the side seals and have never had a leak.
Have I been doing this wrong and just got lucky or is this just their preferred way of doing the install?
Greg

[blykins]

If it works, it works.   

Before I switched to silicone, I would torque the cap down, sand/trim/fit the side seals and lube them up, then drive the nails in.   There's more than one way to skin a groundhog, and if your way has worked, then there's nothing wrong with it.

I haven't used side seals or nails in years now. 

[gregaba]

Hi Brent
Would you give me some details on how you use the silicon?.
I would like to eliminate the side seals and nails if possible.
Thanks
Greg

[blykins]

I use Dow Corning 732 and have for years. 

I cut the nozzle down on the caulking gun tube, jam it in the side seal hole, and then pump until it squirts out the front and rear of the cap.  I then go back and wipe the excess off.   It dries in about 15 minutes and creates a solid blockage against oil. 

[gregaba]

Thank you for the info. I am getting ready to assembly my short block and will use your method.
Greg