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Question
Went for a ride, and the 36 120b sounded a little loud. Open the hood to see if something was coming loose so I did not get stuck on the road. Exhaust was tight but I found I have cracked my exhaust manifold. Did not seem to be running hot in previous rides. Manifold does not look cooked.

As I am new to Packard, is this something that happens?
just old or something

Good news that when it heats up the leak and noise disappears. I can still use it till it gets cold the I will fix it
Thanks for your time
Will

Yeah, they do crack, not all that uncommon. Sometimes attributed to just plain old age but often the failure can be attributed to a stress created somewhere within the manifold, for example from tightening one of the ears against a failed gasket or pulling up an ill-fitting exhaust header.

I'm just asking, but do you know if a sealant was used on your exhaust manifold?
Wes

No, just bought the car and I have not taken it apart yet. Should you use a sealant, and which brand or just a good gasket, dry to account for expansion in the manifold?
Thanks
W

Install dry, no sealant!

I second not using sealant all it will do is burn off and stink a lot. You should consider finding a replacement manifold. I see that you are in NJ and so are we. We do have them available so if you are interested please contact Stuart in our Packard Department.

Thanks
James From
Kanter Auto Products

Thanks, could you let me know after you remove the exhaust manifold?
Wes

Wes
I will, but I am still driving it and I hope to continue till the weather get bad

James
I ready place an inquire with your firm, somebody responded that they would look and get back to me

Thanks again for your attention
W

Just found an exhaust and intake manifold for my 120b. Thinking of sending them out to be ceramic coated.
Advise: should I do it and could you recommend a good finishing shop
Thanks
Will

In my area, I can get a high temp coating in cast, stainless, chrome, etc. Not only do they coat the outside but the inside as well. It keeps things much cooler in addition to good looking. My vote? Absolutely.