Re-Using Header Gaskets?

[SlvrSnake]

The gaskets are from Gibson (Shorties GP312S), rubberish type material. I ordered a new set last Thursday but I think the guy forgot to put the order in so I don't have the new ones. I had the headers coated and took them off Monday got them back yesterday (Friday). Anyway truck has been down for over a week and I sanded the gaskets down a bit to get some of the indentations out and also to remove the gasket sealer. Anybdoy think reusing these and the bolts is a problem?

 

[Bone]

You probably can get away with reusing the gaskets as long as they aren't the paper gaskets. Best is to always get new ones (obvious). Bolt should be fine to reuse. Just check to see if they are in good condition and not stripped.

 

[Annu Kumar]

guys how long can I keep driving with my new gibsons before retorquing the header bolts??

 

[Bone]

First couple hundred miles check them. Then about every time you change your oil check them. Shouldn't see too much needed after awhile. If so, find some locking header bolts.

 

[Annu Kumar]

First couple hundred miles check them. Then about every time you change your oil check them. Shouldn't see too much needed after awhile. If so, find some locking header bolts.

Thanks bone. Next Mod is going to be trans go Shift kit and 727 dd

 

[SlvrSnake]

guys how long can I keep driving with my new gibsons before retorquing the header bolts??

Annu, if you never re-torqued your bolts (30-35 ft/lbs) after you had them installed they are loose. If you have exhaust leaks (phhh phhh phhh sound) it will burn up the gaskets. The Gibson bolts stretch and must be re-torqued after the first 100 miles or so, then a week, a month, and then checked periodically. About 6 months or between oil changes. Also check the collector bolts as well, 3 each side with lock washers. Header bolts are 12 mm sometimes 11 mm fits. Collector bolts are 9/16 in.

Thanks for the responses in regards to the gaskets. Going out to put truck back together before it gets cold here again in the northeast.

 

[Begood]

I strongly urge you to use new factory Dodge exhaust gaskets, they will work the best.

Bill.

 

[TNVIPER]

I reused the stock gasket with my Bassani shortys....never leaked nor has a bolt loosened...have check the bolts 3 times over 1,600 miles..

 

[sleeper]

I would only re-use the gaskets if its an emergency. Change out the gaskets ASAP. An exhaust leak at the header can and usually will warp the header flange.

 

[SlvrSnake]

I ordered new gaskets and bolts but like I said they did not come in time. Headers are back on and there are not any leaks. I have heard others talk about using the stock metal gaskets also. Waiting until spring unless I have a leak before that. Sucks taking the headers on and off especially when its cold outside.

 

[TNVIPER]

As long as the gaskets do not fall apart they can be reused.......and while I did reuse mine I would prefer new gaskets...but 1,600 miles without leaks I doubt I will have any problems...

 

[SlvrSnake]

As long as the gaskets do not fall apart they can be reused.......and while I did reuse mine I would prefer new gaskets...but 1,600 miles without leaks I doubt I will have any problems...

You got lucky on the stock gaskets. Mine fell into about 20 different pieces when I took the stock manifolds off. I would have to buy a set and am considering doing so but not until it starts to get warmer again.

 

[Bone]

Patrick can get stockers to you pretty fast. I think I have bought about 4-5 pairs off of him! LOL I always try to put new gaskets on. Yes, it is expensive. You should try the head gaskets! around 350 bucks!

 

[TNVIPER]

You got lucky on the stock gaskets. Mine fell into about 20 different pieces when I took the stock manifolds off. I would have to buy a set and am considering doing so but not until it starts to get warmer again.

My truck only had about 3500 miles and 13 months aging....

 

[SlvrSnake]

Patrick can get stockers to you pretty fast. I think I have bought about 4-5 pairs off of him! LOL I always try to put new gaskets on. Yes, it is expensive. You should try the head gaskets! around 350 bucks!

How much for a set of header gaskets? I have seen them for about $20 a piece. Also with the stockers, you still need gasket sealer or can you get away without it?

 

[SANCHOBA]

How much for a set of header gaskets? I have seen them for about $20 a piece. Also with the stockers, you still need gasket sealer or can you get away without it?

got mine from the MOPAR CONNECTION (robert)...i believe they were $45.00 for a set.no gasket sealer required.

 

[Bone]

Sounds about right for the Mopar metal ones. Just PM Patrick or go to his website (Avondale)

 

[BurntRubber]

guys how long can I keep

I haven't even touched mine...5k miles

 

[FSTJACK]

The stock Viper sandwich gasket can be reused. it should be put on dry with no sealer.

Retorque at 50 mile intervals for the first 150 miles.

 

[SlvrSnake]

The stock Viper sandwich gasket can be reused. it should be put on dry with no sealer.

Retorque at 50 mile intervals for the first 150 miles.

I plan on getting a set of the stock gaskets. Like that idea the best. Don't like the smell of the gasekt and sealer burning, smells like sh#$t. Should have a new set of bolts and gaskets on the way (Gibson ones). Already ordered them before I consulted the oracle (you guys), so too late to cancel.

I love these trucks but I spend money on this thing like its going out of style. It's like a sickness. My wife wants to shoot me