Symptoms  of a Bad Exhaust Manifold Gasket 

With repeated exposure to heating and cooling cycles, the exhaust manifold gasket can become stressed and fail.  Signs of a  bad exhaust manifold gasket include:

• Excessive engine noise
• Diminished engine performance, loss of acceleration and reduced gas mileage
• A burning smell
• Exhaust fumes in the vehicle cabin
• A ticking/exhaust noise present that goes away as the engine warms up
• Check Engine light on

Checking for Exhaust Manifold Leaks  

To check for exhaust manifold leaks, start by visually inspecting the engine compartment (once it has cooled), looking for black soot around the exhaust manifold. You should look for obvious cracks in the manifold, loose/missing/broken fasteners at the

exhaust manifold and check for damage around the exhaust ports. Some exhaust manifolds may have heat shields on them that require removal for a better look at the manifold’s condition. Use of a flashlight and inspection mirror may help while looking under the manifold.

How to Install  Fel-Pro – Clean and Dry  

Fel-Pro exhaust manifold gaskets are designed so that no additional sealers are needed. Fel-Pro's premium materials compensate for surface imperfections and provide the proper amount of torque retention. Always consult the product instructions (where applicable) prior to installation. Fel-Pro exhaust gaskets may have a smooth, shiny side and a dull colored side. The shiny side faces the exhaust manifold to allow it to “slide” as it expands and contracts. Other tips include:

Follow the manufacturer’s torque specs and sequence to ensure a long-lasting seal

Cracked or broken exhaust manifolds will require replacement

Exhaust manifolds with broken fasteners may become warped or out-of-flat, needing replacement or resurfacing

New fasteners such as bolts, studs and self-locking nuts should be replaced as they will have weakened

Some exhaust manifolds use an exhaust gasket between the lower exhaust flange and front exhaust pipe. In many cases, Fel-Pro provides the necessary fasteners.