Which side should header gaskets face?

[Blazer79]

I got a pair of Felpro exhaust manifold gaskets. One side is aluminum, the other side looks like asbestos. Which side should be facing my <font color=blue>Thorley</font color=blue> /forums/images/icons/wink.gif header?

Thanks.

 

[schwinnd]

The metal side faces the exhaust manifold, away from the block.

 

[79Beast]

Always put the shiny side toward the heat source. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer.

 

[Blazer79]

OK, it sounds like we need someone else to tip the scale.

I just installed them, and put the shiny side facing the header, but I'm thinking probably 79Beast is right and I should flp them.

Does anybody know if felpro has a website? felpro.com didn't work.

Thanks.

 

[79Beast]

My thinking is that if you already installed them, dont take them back off. Retorque the header bolts FREQUENTLY for the first five or so heat cycles. After that, with every oil change. If my advice is different from the manufacturer, remember that my method is experience based. Do what works for you.

 

[schwinnd]

I just put some on when I put the new heads on the motor and the directions said to face the the metal side to the header.

 

[84_Chevy_K10]

Those aren't header gaskets. Those are manifold gaskets.

 

[Leadfoot]

I have used manifold gaskets on headers and they work great (assuming the header flange in not too warped). They don't blow out and seem to help keep header bolt torque retention. The papers ones blow out too easy in my opinion (usually why they are cheaper), and I have also had good luck with copper and dead soft aluminum ones.