Replacing Exhaust Manifold Gaskets - Any Tips?

[Op-Ivy]

I am about to replace my exhaust manifold gaskets this weekend. I think I am prepared but does anyone have any additional tips for me?

Thanks!

Matt

[libbydiesel]

Use permatex ultra copper on both sides.

[CarlosA]

+1 on the permatex copper stuff

[745 turbogreasel]

I've never had any problem with leaking, but I'll add put them in right way to, they flow much better when not blocking 1/4th of the port.

[R.O.R-2.0]

ive NEVER used any sealing dope on the exhaust gaskets..

install them correctly, there is an up and a down.

there is also a head side, and manifold side..

they all go on facing up tho, otherwise they wont clear the manifold.

[fatmobile]

I don't put any on the exhaust gaskets either,.. but I do put some copper stuff on the toilet bowl seal like Andrew suggests.

[libbydiesel]

It's probably not needed, but there is no downside and it definitely prevents leaks even when parts are not totally true/flat.

[Op-Ivy]

Sounds good guys! Thanks for the tips!

I am having a hard time seeing the way that the gaskets go on but I think it will become more apparent once I have the manifold.

Thanks again!!

[danster]

As mentioned above, make sure to fit the gaskets in the correct orientation.
They are asymmetric and there is a more pronounced curve at one end and this is to clear the inlet manifold.
The gaskets do not all go on the same way, ports for cylinders 1 & 2 go one way, and ports for 3 & 4 go the other way, effectively mirrored around the centre of the head.
Take the time to check they are fitted correctly on all ports before refitting the exhaust manifold. It's very easy to get it wrong without looking closely..

There are early and late type gaskets which have different size holes depending on engine type. Make sure you do not fit the type designed for the small ports to a head designed with the larger ports.

[CarlosA]

As mentioned above, make sure to fit the gaskets in the correct orientation.
They are asymmetric and there is a more pronounced curve at one end and this is to clear the inlet manifold.
The gaskets do not all go on the same way, ports for cylinders 1 & 2 go one way, and ports for 3 & 4 go the other way, effectively mirrored around the centre of the head.
Take the time to check they are fitted correctly on all ports before refitting the exhaust manifold. It's very easy to get it wrong without looking closely..

There are early and late type gaskets which have different size holes depending on engine type. Make sure you do not fit the type designed for the small ports to a head designed with the larger ports.

Is there ever a situation where it matters if the metal is against the head or manifold? Sometimes the gaskets are reversible and i never know which is more important, lol.

[ToddA1]

I use the A3 ABA manifold gasket.  It's one piece, metal gasket.

-Todd