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I just bought a set of hooker headers that are used and don't come with gaskets. Are gaskets universal? What brand do you guys recommend! Anything else I need? Thanks!
X2 on the Percy's, i've been using their "dead soft" aluminum header gaskets 8yrs plus (w/Stage 8 locking fasteners), i've had my headers off three times during that time period and reused the very same gaskets, and never had any leaks!
Ultra copper rtv works well too, but if you ever need to pull your headers you gotta scrape all that goop off and reapply, for that reason alone i prefer gaskets over rtv.
Just a couple of tips:
-Use anti-seize on the bolt threads. The PO of my truck used it and it looked from the outside that they'd snap off... lo and behold they came out like butter.
-Don't over-torque! Stock manifold bolts need, depending on the engine, only between 18-27 ft.lbs.
-After a few heat cycles re-tighten the bolts to "snug" or 2x with Montana_Highboy with Stage 8 hardware.