455 header gaskets

Hi,

i have a 68 skylark convertible,with a 455.
and the header gaskets don't seem to last that long.
the bolts seem to loosen and the gasket blows out.
i have the allen key bolts,and regular header bolts,with lock washers.
i'm using mr gasket gaskets.
and i really don't drive the car much.

thanks Michael

 

Call TA and get their newer style 455 header gaskets...they have a steel core.

Make SURE you repeatedly retorque all the bolts after a few heat cycles. They will work loose as you have seen. Eventually, they will stay tight as the gasket compresses.

 

Right on!

The TA graphite gaskets with the steel core are excellent.:TU:

 

Hi Adam

ok,thanks.
another question, do you have there number ?

thanks again Michael

 

um...not offhand...

www.taperformance.com

:TU:

 

retorque, retorque, retorque. If you do this, and have NO other issues, the cheapo gaskets CAN work just fine.

 

Hi Guys,

Michael.....go here http://www.go-breslin.com/Splitlock.html and check these out! Jeg's has them, just get the set for the BBC/SBF. They come in 3/4" or 1" UHL (under head length) depending on the thickness of your header flange. They come in either black oxide coated or stainless steel for a few extra dollars.:TU:

Hope this helps..

 

Ditto. Have one REAL header gasket now in its 11th year. On the other side using those metallic sandwich "manifold" gaskets for 8 years. Put the red silicone goo on all gaskets and ran a box wrench around each side before and after a drive for about a month. Gotta be vigilent with the wrench!

 

The best 455 header gaskets...

Okay, I've got to do gaskets AGAIN and NEVER want to do them ever, ever again. :spank:

I've read this post, gained info., but for my purposes, tightening, tightening, tightening has never worked for me on the ex-cheapo gaskets. So I've checked out the Ultra Black 1400 degree gaskets from TA and also the copper ones from Poston.

What is everyone's input on: 1) The Ultra Black from TA. 2) Copper from Poston.

Got to order today so I can get 'em done quick. So, your quick input is greatly appreciated!!!! :TU:

 

i prefer the TA ones,
better quality,price, durability.

 

http://www.paeenterprises.com/paeframe.html
Got mine from Jim Burek.
Look under gaskets

 

Don't see any header gaskets listed for 350 - 455, just V6's. o No:

 

Welllllll I'll be!!!!! Call him. 915-855-6009 tell'em your on the v8 board. Politely ask for what you need.

 

Politely ask for what I need!!!!???!!! :eek2: Is he MEAN or something? :af: Now I'm scared to call him! :laugh:

 

No Dee, he is not MEAN....

But builds some of the MEANEST Buick engines. :Smarty: :laugh:

 

Nice call Dan! :grin: Here is Jim's private message link~
http://www.v8buick.com/private.php?do=newpm&u=108
If you get to talk to him, you will find he is very polite, knowledeable and willing to help. Some stuff he carries is not listed on his website, just ask.