ERA / FE Header Gasket Tip

[chuckbrandt]

Hey Folks,
I just wanted to pass along a tip that worked for me. I have had problems with my passenger side header gasket leaking, I was using FelPro 1442s and had been through 2 on that side (1600 miles). So I decided to try copper SCE 4034. I put one on and it almost sealed but not quite. I got this tip from Bert at Gessford, he said to use 2 of the gaskets on each side. I did it and it worked much better. It's an expensive fix but if it holds up I'm happy. As I said, your mileage may vary but it definitely worked for me.

Chuck

[ERA Chas]

Chuck,
I've been using the coppers for 4 years now with no leaks. The real trick is using 1" long header bolts instead of 3/4". The greater reach has allowed me to get one gasket per side to work perfectly. FelPros always leaked.

[Excaliber]

Where can you buy these gaskets?

Opps, did a Goggle search, you can buy them right here!

http://store.summitracing.com/partde...5&autoview=sku

[Loadco]

Are you sure the mounting flanges are flat? That is usually the reason for gasket sealing problems.

[speed220mph]

I cured the leakage problem by leveling the header-flange surfaces on a belt sander and milling the erroded exhaust surfaces on the heads while rebuilding my engine. The erroded surfaces on the heads prevented any gasket from sealing.

[chuckbrandt]

My header flanges are level, there are just a couple of them that appear to be cocked a bit. It would be better if they were all on one flange. On the old gasket (composite) you can see that one side presses in further than the other.

Chuck

[GEORGE ANDERSON]

Chuck...glad it worked....we keep about 6 different SCE gaskets to help make sure we can get a seal...even with milling the flanges...the bolt length is good if the depth of the heads will allow...go too deep and you can get into the chamber....very thin area there in some places.
G