I looked through the old messages and didn't really find anything specific. Saw some mentions of double gasket-ing, etc. So far, I've found the Felpro that has the paper/metal combo and the heavy paper type. What brands are you having the best luck with? Throw out some brands and sources for me. It's a 79, with headers.

 

I was having a lot of problems with blown header gaskets so I had a local company make me a header gasket out of .062 solid copper and I haven't had another leak since. They now have a template since I was the first to order one. You can give them a call at "RatGaskets.com" or call them at (714)-671-0771. I had them make the template using the Clifford one piece gasket, since it lines up with the ports in the head better than the Fel-Pro ones.

 

mr. gasket #260 works well - it's a compressed HI-Temp fiberglass that's a little thicker and takes up variation is the surface of the intake & exhaust.

 

When replacing manifold gaskets, you should install the gasket and use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts/studs. Drive the truck for about 100 miles and re-torque the bolts. I suggest the check the bolts with a torque wrench at 1000 miles and all should be ok. As far as headers and gaskets, that is a normal to replace gaskets often as well as collector gaskets.