Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

In having my exhaust manifold gasket changed out, it was noticed that the manifold is pitted. Can these be refinished, or do I need to order another one? There are a couple of machine shops in town, I was thinking of starting there, but wondered if there was a limit to how many times that can be done, like rotors, etc. If I have to have a new one, where is the best place to start? Anyone else ever have this done??

You mean the outside? Pitting is a normal result of age and use. It does not need replacing. If the look of it bothers you, you could paint it with hi temp paint. You could also have it coated with porcelain enamel but that is VERY expensive.

Thanks Rusty! It has already been bead blasted and painted, thank goodness it was okay!! The one used one I found was $660 dollars!! Holy moley, who would've thunk???

Wow, looks like I need to raise some prices...!!

I'd think that price would include an attached parts car (or darn near).

On a good day I will sell you two complete 288 engines with manifolds attached for that money.

I assume you mean that the face that bolts to the engine is pitted. The very best option is to have the intake and exhaust manifolds machined as one unit so everything is nice and flat (we are talking about a straight eight here, aren't we?) After the machining, take a file or die grinder and remove all of the sharp edges so they won't dig into the new gaskets.

Wow!! I could have the 576ci V16 for my Packie!! I have to tell you I was shocked! I will take your advice about the filing though.

Quote:

Never thought to do that. Sounds like a good idea. I replaced a cracked intake/exhaust manifold on my 327. Had the assembly resurfaced and then installed it. It wasn't long before I noticed part of one of the gaskets was moving because of the heating and cooling. Thought I didn't have the thing torqued down properly. Now I think the problem was caused by the sharp edged left from the resurfacing digging into the gasket. Never had the same problem with a V8 exhaust or a 6 intake/exhaust manifold. You live and learn.