Author Topic: Ex manifold gaskets  (Read 2254 times)

Offline philo_beddoe

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Ex manifold gaskets
« on: November 17, 2015, 10:10:07 pm »
Is it true that you dont need gaskets for stock exhaust manifolds?
Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee.  Zechariah 14:1

Offline bd

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Re: Ex manifold gaskets
« Reply #1 on: November 17, 2015, 11:20:33 pm »
Exhaust manifolds were installed without flange gaskets at the factory.  Typically, I don't use gaskets when servicing exhaust manifolds.  I check the sealing surfaces for flatness and alignment, and smear a thin even coat of Ultra Copper on the flange faces during assembly.  If the manifolds are badly warped, gaskets won't really help.

When removing an old manifold that you intend to reuse, it is good practice to install "spreaders" before loosening the bolts - two per manifold. 



The 'spreaders' help maintain the flange spacing and greatly ease reassembly.  Otherwise the cast manifold can distort, making its reuse a frustrating proposition.  Once the manifolds move, the spreaders are virtually useless.  They won't restore flange position or alignment.
Rich
It's difficult to know just how much you don't know until you know it.
In other words... if people learn by making mistakes, by now I should know just about everything!!!
87 R10 Silverado Fleetside 355 MPFI 700R4 3.42 Locker (aka Rusty, aka Mater)

Offline philo_beddoe

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Re: Ex manifold gaskets
« Reply #2 on: November 18, 2015, 09:39:02 am »
Ok, phew!  Because my mechanic did not use them. We used stainless bolts too.  No leaks! Thanks
Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee.  Zechariah 14:1