Need some answers on header gaskets/hardware

[moose]

I've narrowed my gasket choice to either Remflex or Mr. Gasket Ultra seal...or possibly Earl's

True or False, Ultra Seals can be trimmed to match ports without damaging the gasket.

On Remflex...I've seen ratings at 50/50. People rate them as POS/Awesome. For those with experience using them, do you think that the bad experiences are a direct result of not following the directions and specs? I've also read about how fragile these are. True or False, can Remflex be trimmed to match ports without damaging the gasket.

Who's using Earl's, any leaks?

Also, I've been told that cutting the gasket into three pieces, like so...

will provide a superior seal. It sounds logical; less surface area=less imperfections...but is it legitimate? Anyone ever done this?

As for hardware, what exact type of lock washers are being used by you guys? I'm considering getting some total locs but if I can just get some lock washers from the hardware store that would be better (cheaper) for now. I think I've seen those types of washers at ACE before, but now I can't find them. Anyone know what their technical name is?

Thanks in advance

 

[moose]

I've ruled out Remflex, decided not to take a risk at that price when I could a set of Earl's for about six buck more. Right now I'm leaning towards the Jegs brand which seem to be made pretty much identical to the Ultra Seals, but with a slightly larger port hole.

I assume everyone is using a split style lock washer. Although, I'm still curious as to what kind Total Loc uses.

 

[Longroof79]

Other than using aluminum or copper header gaskets, I've had good luck with Ultra Seal gaskets over the years. I've never blown one out yet.
As for cutting the gaskets, I think I'd leave 'em whole..leave them in one piece.

 

[RITTER]

The ones I use from my Felpro gasket sets are 3 piece gsakets, and I love them. The bolt holes are slotted open on the bottom so you can get all the bolts started and then just drop them in place. :idea:

FPG #MS9275B

 

[Crazcnuk]

I used solid copper header gaskets for about 2 years, but could never get them to seal (can't tighten them enough on aluminum heads). I finally bought a set of the crappy gaskets that come with the headers, and have been using them for 11 years.

I have never blown out a header gasket. as long as they are kept tight, the gasket material really isn't an issue.

I use aluminum dump tub gaskets, however, for their ability to stay together through numerous removals.

 

[moose]

The ones I use from my Felpro gasket sets are 3 piece gsakets, and I love them. The bolt holes are slotted open on the bottom so you can get all the bolts started and then just drop them in place. :idea:

FPG #MS9275B

Good to know, thanks!

 

[CAPERKEV]

heres a trick i was told about years ago, take the gaskets, soak em in water, after 15 minutes, install, tighten let em dry 20 run car, been doin this since i was told, an never had a leak, an i used all gaskets i could find in a pinch, fel pro is the best in my book, but hey what do i know

 

[13bravo]

As bar as the bolts go, just drill the bolt head and safety wire them. It works extremely well, and is relatively easy to do.

 

[78MC-BBC]

i have had really good luck when using the stock exhaust manifold gaskets on headers, along with the layered aluminum and copper header gaskets

 

[All Motor Boys]

in the past i got whatever auto zone had in stock and double them up. never had a problem.. single gasket always seemed to leak for me