Exhaust Manifold Problems

Posted by gr8scottw On 2016/10/25 9:50:33

I'm having a problem with manifold gasket seals blowing VERY quickly in my 1946 Super Clipper with 356 engine, especially the furthest back gasket. When we replaced them, we used the individual gasket set (upon recommendation) instead of the all-in-one gasket. The car ran maybe 200 miles before blowing that last gasket and creating the exhaust leak again.

When we changed the gaskets the last time, we had to remove the manifold completely because one of the studs was bent, which later broke off in removal process, and then the easy out broke, so a super small dental drill later, the easy-out and stud remains were painstakingly removed from the block and a new stud put in.

My mechanic seems to think that the manifold has malformed over the years and through the heat cycles, causing it not to seat properly, which in turn causes that one gasket to blow. It's not that I don't trust him (I absolutely do) but wanted to know if anyone else had this problem or had an idea?

I'm starting to source a replacement exhaust manifold, so if anyone has one laying around... :)

Thanks for the help!