RTV on header flange?

[Goblin]

Real quick question about exhaust installation:

I've got 700+ degree RTV sealent, when installing my new Header and DP should I use RTV on the new flange gaskets? I'm sure I should do it at both ends of the DP (cat and header) but I'm not sure if I should use it on the header and engine... (when I pulled off the blown manifold the gasket didn't have any traces of sealant that I could fine and that's probably why it blew?).

So to put RTV on the header gasket or not?

 

[GeneW]

I believe the manifold gets too hot for silicone.
I would try muffler sealant.
I've always had good luck not using anything - just cleaning the parts so they are smooth and shiny.

 

[HondaHunter2002]

Originally posted by GeneW

I've always had good luck not using anything - just cleaning the parts so they are smooth and shiny.

i agree

 

[Goblin]

"too hot" that's what I thought, I'll just put it on the DP flanges.

 

[InFlames]

You don't even need to use that stuff on the DP, it will not leak(it will probably still just burn away). I would only use RTV on other engine gaskets like valve cover, thermostat housing, and such.

 

[Street gear]

Real quick question about exhaust installation:

I've got 700+ degree RTV sealent, when installing my new Header and DP should I use RTV on the new flange gaskets? I'm sure I should do it at both ends of the DP (cat and header) but I'm not sure if I should use it on the header and engine... (when I pulled off the blown manifold the gasket didn't have any traces of sealant that I could fine and that's probably why it blew?).

So to put RTV on the header gasket or not?

When installing headers I find it to be one of the best secrets for good sealing. I have used it many times and it has never let me down. As for as using it on the DP I have never tried it.

 

[DSMcrazy3]

Don't use the sealer. The headers should come with a new gasket which will do the job just fine, assuming you don't have any stripped bolts/studs.

I've never used it on any header I've installed or seen installed; all have been fine.

 

[Talon ESI-T]

When I have a header/manifold flange milled, i do not use any copper sealant. Copper RTV will not burn away even at 1700 degrees. Ask me how i know? Once i have had a manifold off a couple times, its a little bit of insurance to take your finger and smear some on the gasket around the ports.

Most all headers your going to buy have not been milled after they were welded. You know what that means, the flange is warped. Even brand new Star Manifolds are warped, i have had 2 of them milled already.

Its up to you, in a perfect world you dont have to use any.

For those of you explaining RTV will burn up, make sure you know what RTV the person is taking about and please do not assume all RTV is low temp. CU RTV is good to 1700+ degrees.

Terry

 

[bullettdsm]

Not that Terry needs any backing up, but, I will back him up on this one. I was turned on to the stuff about 1 1/2 years ago by DSMJim? on this site. Sounded goofy, but he swore by it. I now swear by it. I like to use it because I have 3 DSMs that I am always changing crap on (lots of different turbo and exhaust housing changes). I never have to worry about having the right gasket. I never have to worry about making a gasket to fit my port. The only place that I do not use it is the head connection (head to exhaust mani).

Just my 2 cents

MB