Any header gasket leaks?
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 166
Likes: 0
Any header gasket leaks?
I am seriously considering adding a set of LT headers. My main concern is with the header gaskets. Anyone having troubles with them developing leaks?
I hate exhaust leaks and can not tell you the number of times I've had to change gaskets on my other toys. Very annoying to say the least. I've had better luck with "higher quality" headers and gaskets, but still average one or two sets a year.
Thanks in advance.
I hate exhaust leaks and can not tell you the number of times I've had to change gaskets on my other toys. Very annoying to say the least. I've had better luck with "higher quality" headers and gaskets, but still average one or two sets a year.
Thanks in advance.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 3,396
Likes: 2
From: North Manchester Indiana
on my street rod, I use copper gaskets, never a leak.. on my LS1 vette, i used LG headers and OEM gaskets,, never a leak,, not a problem. if you use the cheap header gaskets,, you will need to replace them ,,, usually. Good torque and re-checking of te olts help, remember, dont overtighten the bolts on alum heads,,
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 166
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Thanks for the input. I've tried the copper gaskets on my Chevelle with Hooker Super Comp headers and could not get them to seal. The tubes are too big to get a decent wrench on which keeps me from torquing them down enough.
If you are using factory gaskets with the Long tubes on the Vette, they must have excellent access to the fasteners.
Hmmm, if I can get near stock reliability outta the gaskets, my Vette just might get a Christmas present.
If you are using factory gaskets with the Long tubes on the Vette, they must have excellent access to the fasteners.
Hmmm, if I can get near stock reliability outta the gaskets, my Vette just might get a Christmas present.
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 47,647
Likes: 1
From: Queens, New York Life begins at 183 mph....
St. Jude Donor '08-'09
Silly question but how do you know if your gaskets are starting to leak? Do you hear a hissing noise, do you smell exhaust in the cabin? I guess the best way to know is to drop a string next to the headers and see if there's any gas leaking out. Just curious.
Safety Car
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 3,874
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From: Fishing Somewhere Cold
St. Jude Donor '11-'12-'13, '15
Usually it is a very distinct ticking noise that denotes a manifold exhaust leask. I have LG longtubes and used OEM gaskets and have no leaks to date (8mos)
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If you use good gaskets, it should not leak. OEM gaskets work well.
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