|
|
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,774 Likes: 4
ChatMaster - 1,500
|
OP
ChatMaster - 1,500
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,774 Likes: 4 |
I have an exhaust gasket leak on my 454. It is not very bad yet but I hear it on acceleration. How likely is it that the bolts will twist off in the head? Are there any tricks to prevent them from breaking? Also, if I get the manifold off, should I use gaskets or not. Thanks for any advice.
Ed
|
|
|
| |
 |
| Vintage
Chevrolet Club of America |
|
"The World's Best Chevrolet Club" |
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1
Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
|
|
Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1 |
I would have the face of the manifolds planed. This can be done with the machine that runs a large sanding belt that is water cooled. It is almost certain that your manifolds are warped.  
RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/1925 Superior K Roadster 1928 Convertible, Sport, Cabriolet 1933 Eagle, Coupe 1941 Master Deluxe 5-Passenger Coupe 1950 Styleline Deluxe 4-Door Sedan 1950 Styleline Deluxe Convertible 2002 Pontiac, Montana, Passenger Van 2014 Impala, 4-Door Sedan, White Diamond, LTZ 2017 Silverado, Double Cab, Z71, 4X4, White, Standard Bed, LTZ If you need a shoulder to cry on, pull off to the side of the road. Death is the number 1 killer in the world.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,774 Likes: 4
ChatMaster - 1,500
|
|
OP
ChatMaster - 1,500
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,774 Likes: 4 |
Thankyou for the reply. The manifolds on this engine are not cast iron, they appear to be stainless steel with a sort of bellows in between the 2nd and 3rd cylinder on each side. I think I read that some 454's had them from the factory (to remedy the problem they had with cracking). They really don't look like headers. The only leak is on the front cylinder on the drivers side and it is very small. I heard it but it took me a long time to find it. I would agree about the planing them if they were cast. Do you think it should be done with this type of manifold? This is on a motorhome.
Ed
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1
Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
|
|
Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1 |
I would at least subject them to a strait edge test. I had problems with the manifold bolts popping the heads off. At least on our motor homes we can remove the front wheel and then you have complete access to the side of the engine to work on it.
RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/1925 Superior K Roadster 1928 Convertible, Sport, Cabriolet 1933 Eagle, Coupe 1941 Master Deluxe 5-Passenger Coupe 1950 Styleline Deluxe 4-Door Sedan 1950 Styleline Deluxe Convertible 2002 Pontiac, Montana, Passenger Van 2014 Impala, 4-Door Sedan, White Diamond, LTZ 2017 Silverado, Double Cab, Z71, 4X4, White, Standard Bed, LTZ If you need a shoulder to cry on, pull off to the side of the road. Death is the number 1 killer in the world.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,774 Likes: 4
ChatMaster - 1,500
|
|
OP
ChatMaster - 1,500
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,774 Likes: 4 |
Yes, that is an advantage! I will definately check it with a straight edge if I take it off. I am actually not sure if it is worth the risk of opening up a can of worms. It has been like this for 2 or 3 years and doesn't seem to be getting worse after a few trips to Texas and Wisconsin. I only hear it on fairly hard acceleration but it bugs me to know it's there. lol Also, things like that never get better, usually worse.
Ed
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 399 Likes: 1
Backyard Mechanic
|
|
Backyard Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 399 Likes: 1 |
Uncle Ed, I have had a lot of luck with spraying "PB Blaster" which is like Liquid Wrench but penetrates better, in my opinion. Also use a Metrench socket or a six point socket not a 12 point socket. Go slow and talk nice. 
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,774 Likes: 4
ChatMaster - 1,500
|
|
OP
ChatMaster - 1,500
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,774 Likes: 4 |
Thanks Steve, I think I can follow your advice except the talking nice might end if I twist off a bolt!
Ed
|
|
|
|
|
