hurst1

Good day everyone.

We are installing our New RH Side Exhaust Manilfold this weekend. I read someplace that they originally we not installed with gaskets. Do we need to use a gasket, sealant or just attach it and tighten it up. Its a 73 Oldsmobile Omega.

Thanks Bill

rand5204

Use a gasket. It will helps insure against leaks fro any small defects in the mating surfaces.

joe_padavano

The factory did not use gaskets. If the manifold and head are not pitted, just install them per the factory manual. Using a gasket, especially the composition ones you get in engine gasket sets, can cause moisture to be retained and actually increase rust and pitting at the mating surfaces (as happened on my 67). If you MUST use gaskets, spend the money and use Remflex graphite-loaded gaskets. These are the best I've ever used. I had to use them on my 67 due to the pitting. Normally I don't use any with stock manifolds.

droldsmorland

Check the manifold for trueness new or used. You can get a small amount of warp out with various home methods. Otherwise, mill it.
Use copper anti-seize on all exhaust fasteners. It will go together and come apart easier.
Recheck fastener torque after several heat cycles. Not sure if its a wet or dry torque? Careful to not over torque.
(Rule of thumb, back off 10% on dry torque values when using lube or anti-seize).

jcdynamic88

i would also recommend using new bolts ,seems to me the old worn threads have a tendency to loosen up.

hurst1

Thanks everyone for the information that you provided. We installed it with a gasket and the only issue was lining up the exhaust downturn with the manifold bolts. All in all very easy.