Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Two questions about installing the intake manifold on a V-8 Clipper. Is there any cement required for the manifold gasket? I think the gasket goes on dry. The raised surface of the gasket goes towards the manifold, correct? It seems to me this is the side that should be towards the manifold. Your help is appreciated.

(o{I}o)

I'm assuming its an ALL METAL gasket???? Then yes the raised bead on the gasket goes toward the manifold. I don;t like cement. Use some grease. Many people use cement. It's a personal thing i guess. If u use grease then then under pinch hit conditions the gasket can often be reused. Cement will usualy tear up the gasket upon diassembly causing the owner to UNCONDITIONALY buy a new gasket.

Take your pick.

PackardV8, Thank you for your reply. Yes the manifold gaskets are the thin stamped all steel type. I'll probably put them up dry unless I hear convincing words to do otherwise. I was under the impression that these stamped steel gaskets should not be re-used because the bead has been compressed and they will not seal properly a second time.

(o{I}o)

Correct, the embossed steel shim-style gaskets should not be reused. I put mine on dry - no problems yet after about 15,000 miles though I was very careful to get the mating surfaces extremely clean. I've also used the composite type mostly sold with the modern gasket sets - no problems with them either and I also installed them dry.

O_D, thanks for your reply. I have cleaned the head and manifold surfaces with a single blade razor and they are very clean. I have heard about spraying these shim steel gaskets with an aluminum or metallic spray paint and install them before the paint dries. This is supposed to as a thin cushion or sealer. Any truth about this process?

(o{I}o)

I wouldn't even consider using paint - too many different types of paint with many different purposes, pigments, solvents, binders, etc. If you want to use a sealer, use a sealer - like Permatex copperized gasket cement meant for cylinder heads. It comes in an aerosol so you can hang the gasket and spray to get a nice even coat w/o making a mess.

Thanks again O_D, I have benefited from your advice, and many others here too. The sharing and exchange of information is what makes this site so valuable.

(o{I}o)