How often does your donut gasket blow out?

[Zack1978]

Hey everyone,
I have been dealing with the issue of the donut gasket blowing out often for the past 6 years (on and off) it blows out where the downpipe meets the manifold. Before I changed the exhaust with new OEM parts it made sense because the downpipe flange was warped so the gasket would blow out. NOw with all new OEM pipes, why? The current donut gasket has been good for almost 2 years, now its gone again? Any tips as to what the hell is wrong? Why does it not last a VERY long time?

Thanks,
Zack

 

[cruiser88]

i got so sick of them blowing my buddy cut the flange and welded it up

 

[60wag]

Bad motor mount? I've never had a problem with the seal failing. I'd hate to have to work on a truck that was welded there.

 

[UpsideDown]

There is usually a small amount if pipe sticking up above the flange that protects the donut since it inserts into the manifold and acts as a sleeve. If that part is not there, then the donuts won't always last long.

If you're using substandard donuts or parts that don't quite fit, that can also be a cause. Another cause, already suggested, is a loose pipe or missing or loose support brackets.

 

[Dynosoar]

Most exahust (muffler) shops have all metal (steel) donuts. They seem to last for ever as long as you don't overtighten the union flange. The fiber/ asbestos/whatever kind seem to burn up after a while.

Dynosoar

 

[Zack1978]

Most exahust (muffler) shops have all metal (steel) donuts. They seem to last for ever as long as you don't overtighten the union flange. The fiber/ asbestos/whatever kind seem to burn up after a while.

Dynosoar

So where can we get an all metal gasket for our 60's?


Zack

 

[cruiser88]

try napa

 

[Zack1978]

Well we will see how long my gasket lasts, it is getting replaced today!

Zack

 

[cruiser88]

doing the runner this weekend .i know it will not last long

 

[Cruiserdrew]

I get about 6 months to a year each time, but I have the change down to under 1/2 hour. Next time, I'm getting that new stainless pipe from Spector that has a thicker flange and so is less likely to damage the donut.

And BTW, all the motor mounts are new.

 

[Zack1978]

It is actually stupid that we are only talking about 6mo to a year! I wonder if a header would help?

Zack

 

[fowldarr]

OK, Still a noob, and have basic mechanic skills (if i take it off, I can usually get it back on) How do I know if my Donut is blown? I assume it is because everything else seems to be right now, but while I'm pulling stuff out of the engine bay (PS pump, alternator belts, vacuum lines) I might as well look at this too.

 

[cruiser88]

It is actually stupid that we are only talking about 6mo to a year! I wonder if a header would help?

Zack

YES

 

[Mark W]

Do you still have the steel ring that was originally in there with the gasket? Lots of rigs have had these left out over the years.

These make a big difference in the sealing and the life of the manifold/headpipe gasket.


Mark...

 

[grant5127]

All the parts in the pic need to be secure and in place... check your motor mounts... a loose or broken mount will let the engine flex and add a strain to the exhaust connection area.....