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Stock Exhaust Manifold Gaskets

euforia51
06-21-2008, 12:15 PM
Did a search but still have to ask... While I have my stock '97 T/A torn down for a 'tune-up' lol... I'm changing out exhaust manifold gaskets ... I have new Felpro P/N: MS95585 replacements from Auto Zone and decided to put Grade 8 bolts back on with anti-sieze, etc. Not keen on reusing the stock MLS gaskets that came off after 11 years and 100K miles.

The Fel-Pro gaskets don't have an up or down side labeled on them (nor did they come with an instruction sheet) but they are 'cupped' (for lack of a better word) on one side. I'm assuming the recessed (or flatter side) side goes on the head. Correct?

And like with any opinions, some people prefer the stock MLS and others say the Fel-Pros worked for them also. I just don't want to do this again any time soon. So any further advice or suggestions are appreciated. Thanks guys!
Pontiac_97
06-21-2008, 01:14 PM
why are you doing this in the first place? if they didnt leak i wouldnt even touch them. but anyways. i believe the flat side will mate up againts the head and the cupped part will go againts the header
Green96Z
06-21-2008, 01:20 PM
Flat side goes against the head. Can't go wrong with Fel-pro. No leaks from my headers yet with Fel-pro gaskets.
euforia51
06-21-2008, 02:23 PM
why are you doing this in the first place? if they didnt leak i wouldnt even touch them. but anyways. i believe the flat side will mate up againts the head and the cupped part will go againts the header

You know like anything else... started out intending only to do the plugs and the wires and it grew from there. The intake manifold gaskets were shot (nice and oily)... the Opti Cap & Rotor needed to be replaced... etc. The driver's side manifold had to come off (broke off a flange stud taking off the down pipe). So I figured screw it... this is such a pain in the arse, it's best to do all of this at once and not have to wonder/worry about it again for a long time. Not to mention, I have the time to refamiliarize myself with tearing it down and getting it back together, so why not?

Passenger side is done. Gasket went on like you guys described. :thumb: Thanks again!