Resurrecting the thread since my question builds off some past questions raised here and on similar side pipe / exhaust / gasket threads.
My Backdraft driver’s side side pipe bracket which floats on a rubber bushing broke near the pipe – likely due to lots of vibration and tension. I took the pipe off had a new stainless bracket welded back on. Much more robust than the original and had them bend the bar at an angle so the pip was not bent too far down. I’ve show some pictures here. But my question has nothing to do with the bracket…
I removed the side pie to facilitate welding and in doing so noted that the top of the exhaust /side pipe gasket had blow by. The car has only 1,900 miles. It did not look serious and am not too concerned. The fit of the flanges do look fairly square and flat around the perimeter. VMS has sent me another gasket (Thanks Jay) and I’ve ordered new grade-8 bolts and nuts even though the ones removed look fine. After reading the above info and noting some time has passed since the above, here’s my questions:
Since I will use the gasket, should I
ALSO use the high temp RTV (shown) or not? If so, I assume both sides of the gasket, correct? Thanks for the feedback.
New Bracket with slight bend to raise the pipe:
Side Pipe Flange (Pic was rotated so top of pipe is top of picture). Shows where the blow by is occurring:
One side of the gasket:
Other side:
More pictures of the gasket:
