Quick Question about header installation

[firebird19_99]

just wondering how much rtv i should use on the gaskets and im assuming on both sides? also how long i should wait for it to dry before i start the car up?

[Watazz]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

i dont think i would use any RTV on omething like that. Just buy the abbott gaskets and call it a day

[cam98aro]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

I wouldnt use rtv on those gaskets, they should be able to seal fine.

i would let it fit for a few hours for it to dry, check the tube to see if it says how long to let it sit

[firebird19_99]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

then why is it in every thread i read about header installation theres always a mention of using rtv silicone/"orange stuff"? its even in the sticky thread of the header installation and i always see it being mentioned to put some on the gaskets. i already have the abbott gaskets btw

[thedetailman]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

...well the key is to use the HIGH temp stuff. The reason for the sealant is to MAKE SURE there are no exhaust leaks. But with getting a higher quality gasket. leaks are less prominant.

[firebird19_99]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

would it hurt to use some silicone with the abbott gaskets just to be on the safe side? and i do have the hight temp one. its called permatex "ultra copper sensor safe high temp rtv silicone gasket maker"

[dmw319]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

i never used anything on any car ive ever put headers on and ive been fine. no leaks. just make sure you torque the bolts down to the right specs

[Red&Black_Attack]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

I didnt use anything on my abbott gaskets either. If you were using the crappy papaer ones supplied with the headers then yeah use ALOT of RTV, lol.

[Mogobs30th]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

I have Felpro metal gaskets on mine, and they leak like a SOB. Unfortunately, I don't have a garage to fix them. If I had to shovel out advice, get the Abbott gaskets, I believe they are crush-to-fit. If you don't, you have to use alot of RTV, and even then its a crapshoot as to whether or not they'll seal properly.

[bigbrian442]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

You use a very thin layer of the Ultra copper on any header gasket. Any leak will burn out the gasket and progressively get worse. Using metal gaskets it is a must, on other soft gaskets it is optional, but still helps.

[firebird19_99]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

ok gotcha guys. anyone know the torque specs? in the installation thread they didnt mention it. just said to tighten them down

[bigbrian442]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

As tight as you can get them with the correct size wrench with no cheater.

[ACiFiC]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

What's a "cheater"

[Bonemaro]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

i dont think i would use any RTV on omething like that. Just buy the abbott gaskets and call it a day

This is what I did. No leaks at all.

[bigbrian442]

Re: Quick Question about header installation

What's a "cheater"

Something the extends the wrench to multiply torque. IE; a pipe on the end of the wrench.