302 engine

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Nov 15, 2025 | 04:52 PM

48ford///

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Trailering

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302 engine

I pulled my 302 engine out of my 1979 F-150 because of a leaking head gasket, when I removed exhaust manifolds I didn't notice any gaskets for them, did I miss something.

Nov 15, 2025 | 05:23 PM

85e150

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No. There usually are no gaskets as OEM. When the two surfaces are flat and true There is no need for a gasket.

Nov 15, 2025 | 06:57 PM

DaveMcLain

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The best manifold or header gasket is no gasket.

Nov 15, 2025 | 08:04 PM

48ford///

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Trailering

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so when I reinstall manifolds, do not use gaskets, maybe they are not available for my engine???.always thanks

Nov 15, 2025 | 08:38 PM

85e150

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If you didn't have an exhaust leak before, bolt 'em up. Tighten them evenly.

The factory did not use gaskets. You don't need to either.

Last edited by 85e150; Nov 16, 2025 at 12:46 AM. Reason: Correction

Nov 15, 2025 | 10:55 PM

atitagain4

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Quote:

Originally Posted by 48ford///

so when I reinstall manifolds, do not use gaskets, maybe they are not available for my engine???.always thanks

hundreds of avail gasket for your engine. If you are putting the same manifolds on again they are not needed as stated. If you have leaks, after properly tightening and going through a couple heat cycles you can always put on a gasket.