Why does Subaru use RTV?
Subaru, the renowned Japanese automaker, utilizes a specialized sealant called RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) in various components of its vehicles. This sealant plays a crucial role in ensuring the longevity and performance of Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive systems and other critical parts.
What is RTV?
RTV is a silicone-based sealant that cures at room temperature, forming a flexible and durable seal. It is commonly used in the automotive industry to prevent leaks, protect against moisture, and maintain the structural integrity of various components.
Why Subaru Chooses RTV
Subaru's use of RTV is primarily driven by the unique design and engineering of its vehicles, particularly the all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Subaru's AWD technology is a core part of the brand's identity, and the company goes to great lengths to ensure its reliability and longevity. RTV plays a crucial role in this effort:
- Sealing and Protecting Critical Components: Subaru uses RTV to seal and protect various components, such as the differential, transfer case, and other drivetrain parts, from the elements. This helps prevent leaks and maintain the proper lubrication levels, ensuring the long-term performance of these critical systems.
- Flexibility and Durability: RTV is a flexible sealant that can withstand the vibrations, temperature changes, and stresses experienced by Subaru's vehicles, particularly in off-road or harsh driving conditions. This flexibility helps prevent cracks or leaks that could compromise the vehicle's performance.
- Ease of Maintenance: RTV sealants are relatively easy to apply and can be replaced during routine maintenance, making it simpler for Subaru owners to maintain their vehicles and keep them in top condition.
By using RTV, Subaru is able to create a robust and reliable all-wheel-drive system that can withstand the demands of various driving environments, from city streets to rugged off-road trails.
Conclusion
Subaru's use of RTV sealant is a testament to the company's commitment to engineering excellence and the longevity of its vehicles. By carefully selecting and applying this specialized sealant, Subaru ensures that its all-wheel-drive systems and other critical components remain reliable and durable, delivering the performance and off-road capabilities that Subaru owners have come to expect.
Why use RTV instead of a gasket?
Valve covers require RTV sealant because it forms a flexible, airtight seal that accommodates engine vibrations and heat expansion. Unlike rigid gaskets, RTV fills uneven surfaces and prevents oil leaks. Clean the valve cover and mating surface thoroughly before applying a thin, even bead of high-quality RTV.
What RTV does Subaru use?
Here, you are looking at the Subaru OEM ThreeBond 1217H Engine RTV Silicone. This sealant is used for Valve covers, timing chain cover, oil pan, and similar applications.
What are the disadvantages of RTV?
Although RTV silicones are used in a wide array of applications in many different industries, these adhesives and sealants do have some disadvantages. They are more susceptible to picking up debris like dirt, and have poor tear resistance, low tensile strength, and poor cohesive strength.
Why is Subaru associated with LGBTQ?
Subaru is associated with the LGBTQ+ community primarily due to a successful, groundbreaking advertising campaign from the 1990s that targeted lesbian consumers. The company recognized lesbians as a key demographic and developed clever, coded ads that reflected their active, low-key lifestyle. This marketing strategy, combined with authentic internal support and sponsorships, cultivated a strong and loyal customer base within the community.
- Targeted market research: In the 1990s, Subaru identified lesbians as one of five key consumer groups willing to pay a premium for their all-wheel-drive vehicles.
- "Gay-coded" advertising: The ad campaigns used subtle messaging and playful code, such as license plates like "CAMP OUT" and "XENA LVR," and slogans like "Get out. And stay out".
- Authentic and sustained commitment: Subaru went beyond advertising by implementing same-sex domestic partnership benefits and becoming a founding sponsor of the Rainbow Card, which supported LGBTQ+ causes.
- Public endorsements: The brand also signed up public figures like openly gay tennis player Martina Navratilova as a spokesperson, further cementing its association with the community.
- Community recognition: The sustained effort was recognized and appreciated by the LGBTQ+ community, which embraced the brand as its own, leading to the stereotype of lesbians loving Subarus.
