exhaust manifold gaskets

[karaoke_carlos]

I am working on a 93 4.0 ranger with a blown head gasket. I noticed the gasket kit comes with exchaust manifold gaskets... but the truck didn't have gaskets when torn.

Any suggestions? should I use the manifold gaskets anyway?

 

[shadetree]

When new, the exhaust manifolds are machine fit and do not require gaskets. You might put them back on without any problems, but again..... I always use the gaskets as I don't want to do the work a second time.shady

 

[MAKG]

What orange stuff? RTV?

I don't think there is any silicone RTV in existence that can stand up to exhaust temperatures. They just melt. And then they make holes.

 

[karaoke_carlos]

i'm not talking about RTV or any silicone product. This is an actual "metal" gasket. I was just surprised to see it when the motor didn't have one when I took it apart.

 

[MAKG]

i'm not talking about RTV or any silicone product. This is an actual "metal" gasket. I was just surprised to see it when the motor didn't have one when I took it apart.

I was responding to a post from a third poster. It has since been deleted by its originator.

 

[woodyedmiston]

What shady said, ditto. Heat moves metal around - new parts usually stay in place until they are taken apart. Gaskets are cheap insurance. New bolts would sweeten the deal.

I've seen "High-Temp" orange RTV at the parts house. Didn't buy any because of what MAKG said. Even we got something like that out of the space program, I'd still use the gasket. MAKG mentioned a few weeks ago that if you chase those threads with a tap you can put in new studs. Haven't tried it - but it's a thought - if you are having exhaust leak problems.