Exhaust Manifold Gasket

[Cape Codder]

I'm changing the Exhaust Manifold/Intake Manifold Gasket but can't remember which way the smooth part of gasket goes? Does the smooth part go toward the block or toward the Exhaust/Intake Manifold?

Thanks for your time.

[katy]

I don't think it matters, both the block and manifolds are cast iron.
I like to put a thin coating of graphite grease on both sides of the gasket.

[jw hash]

the smooth side goes out towards the manifold

[Cape Codder]

Thanks to jw hash & katy for your response and info!

[johnbuckley]

Originally Posted by jw hash

the smooth side goes out towards the manifold

Why? Curious as I am a bit surprised as I would have thought it didn't matter other than if the crimp makes an indentation when its easier to flat the manifold rather than the block - same as the cylinder head/block gasket scenario.

[John Stone]

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Originally Posted by johnbuckley

Why? Curious as I am a bit surprised as I would have thought it didn't matter other than if the crimp makes an indentation when its easier to flat the manifold rather than the block - same as the cylinder head/block gasket scenario.

This is what I always thought.

[Jacksonlll]

The heat barrier goes toward the hot manifold to reflect the heat away from the engine.

[1931 flamingo]

Depends on which gasket he was using.
Paul in CT


I like the late 31 copper that drops into place. Much easier to change if you have to.

[James Rogers]

Johnbuckley and John Stone are both correct.

[Kurt in NJ]

The A&L gasket has the crimped over part on both sides

[Cape Codder]

Well I thought I should get back to the board.
I changed the Exhaust Manifold Gasket after finding it had a couple area's of leakage and also the Carb. gasket. I installed it with the SMOOTH side toward the manifold's taking the advice of jw hash because I DIDIN'T know which way. The car does run really nice now. And no I am not going to turn it around. Just hope it stays that way as I will be on my way to the New England Meet in two weeks from tomorrow, Wednesday!

Thanks to ALL for your input and suggestions.

[CWPASADENA]

Just a suggestion.


I use the original type copper gaskets, as stated above, the late 31's work very well.


I put the smooth side toward the manifold. I use a thin coat of high temperature RTV (silicone) I use the gland rings if at all possible.


Retighten the nuts after a few heat cycles and again after a hundred miles or so. I have had VERY good life from the gaskets doing it this way.


Again, this is just my opinion.


Chris W.

[Hoogah]

The gasket that I installed over the weekend came with instructions that indicated that the copper side faces the manifold, so that's the view of the manufacturer too!

[Bob-A]

I use the tin clad full length replacement manifold gasket. I spray both sides with Copper-Coat and let it air dry for a couple of minutes until tacky.


Bob-A