Thread: Exhaust manifold gaskets V8

This is from RPI with the old single gaskets, I wonder if it also applies with the shimmed joined gaskets used on the later V8s.
I also notice some exhaust places smear a bit of high temp RTV on the gaskets faces.
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[TD="bgcolor: #999999, align: left"]Exhaust gasket alignment[/TD]
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Although it may seem obvious, which way round you fit the exhaust gaskets, it is very possible to get it wrong, We strongly suggest you check [& double check] the correct alignment as the following 2 pictures will show, getting it wrong has serious power loss implications.

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It's clear to see just how wrong things can be. The problem is not 'the wrong way round', but 'inside out & the wrong way round'!

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Surprisingly enough, exhaust blow was not a problem but power was 40% down (minimum), especially as rpm. increased.[/TD]
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Thanks Mario. RAVE calls for dry. This time I used Permatex gasket maker. Not the high temp silicon RTV but the smelly black goop. I make very sure to get them the right way. The best way is to wedge the manifolds off and once gaskets are placed just feel with a finger to ensure gaskets edges are flush with the edge of the manifold port. Cheers

Yep there's not a lot of meat on the manifold outlet edges.

I would consider checking the tightness of V8 exhaust manifold bolts to be a regular maintenance item, especially after a replacement engine. They are fairly easy to get at after all. I lose track of how many chattery LRV8's have come in here that got much quieter after 10 minutes with a socket and ratchet.

Just checked the bolts. The most rear one under manifold near firewall (driver's side) was quite loose after a drive today...torqued it up whilst still warm to 35 pounds and marked all bolts with a permanent marker to keep an eye on them. This engine is so smooth and sweet when the manifold is bolted up tight! Cheers

mine makes an exhaust leak noise at full load,, sorta. you can hear something compressed leaking somewhere, but all manifold and joints are tight,,
yea, I remember getting schooled on the single gaskets last time,, the ports are that small to begin with,, they dont need any extra blockage...