What do you guys think use gaskets or manifold direct to cyl. head ?? 78 460 F150 . I have had the manifolds resurfaced but still getting leaks between cyl. head and exhaust manifold. Did these trucks have a gasket from factory ??

 

If the head's exhaust flange and the manifold flange are truly flat, no gasket needed. But the chances of them being flat, unless you have just had them both machined, are about zero.

 

So are you saying use gaskets ??

 

Theres a thin metal sheild type of gasket that you need to use for sure just to protect the plug wire boots & then you could get a set of copper gaskets to go between the shield & the manifolds.
Run in for awhile & then re-check those bolts.
Neil

 

I'm saying if you haven't had the heads and manifolds just machine, then use gaskets.

 

Just use the gaskets, there not that much. No use in risking an annoying exh leak.

 

Use gaskets and in addition utilise high temp silicone on both sides of the gasket...

 

permatex ultra copper thin coat is all i use and no gaskets
good luck

 

I just use gaskets. It is a lot easier to clean the gasket off when you have to take the manifold back off than cleaning the permatex off.