I'm replacing my split exhaust manifold and adding an exhaust gasket. The original torque figures are for no gasket and don't seem to be sufficient for the gasket addition. In reading the posts, some say leave the gasket off and some say add it. Can anyone help me with a correct torque value??? It's on a 1989 F-150 4x4 with a 5.0 L/302 auto. Thanks.

 

I am pretty sure you are going to want a gasket on your exhaust manifold. Or else its going to leak like a SOB.

 

The reason why it calls for no gasket is because Ford uses chassis grease around the ports. Once heated it creates a varnish sealing the manifold.

1993 Ford Bronco Exhaust Leak picture | SuperMotors.net

 

Thanks for the background information. But I have decided I want to try a gasket to see if it helps the vibrations from destroying another manifold. And to keep the exhaust going in the right direction. Any idea if Ford used gaskets on any engine? Any idea about a torque setting?? Thanks.