Installing new intake manifold gaskets. I had an air leak. What do you guys think of these gaskets? I seem to remember the felpro printoseal gaskets being frowned on. These look to be the same thing. Does anybody have any knowledge on these? The old standard gasket is in the pic also. Thanks.

As a former mechanic when I wasn't working for a dealership, I always used Felpro. Also, I have never had any problems with the full gasket kits That I used when rebuilding Pontiac v-8's. It has been a while since I did one and maybe things have changed in the last 8 years or so. You said it had an air leak, did you confirm by testing which cylinder it was? also you need to check the manifold with a straight edge and feeler gauges as it might be warped from overheating by either a clogged carb running lean or a past cooling system problem. Also make sure the angles match properly because if the heads were cut enough the intake needs to be cut also. Also, whoever installed the first one may not have used the proper tightening sequence and also did not go back for a second retorque.

I installed those original gaskets about 20 years ago. I don’t believe I went back for a retorque. I confirmed the air leak with carb cleaner. As it turned out the rear bolts were finger tight. I suppose I could have just snugged them up but decided to just put new ones in. I will put a machinists ruler on the gasket surfaces…… just in case. I’ve got to tell you…. I have a slight fear that this car has been over heated. The paint that I had sprayed on the aluminum intake is bubbled. And it is not running good, but I can’t see that any plugs have been washed clean by antifreeze. The compression in the cylinders that I could reach (I have A/C) was about 155. That isn’t too bad is it? So…..I think and hope that things might clean up a bit once I seal up the intake system. I’ll make sure I keep track of the torque on these bolts going forward. Let ya know how she runs when I finally get it buttoned back up.

Edit: As a side note. The block was decked and the heads milled way back when and so I did have to have the intake manifold milled too. It would not fit without it.

Well, I decided to order another set of Victor gaskets. The felpro and Edelbrock gaskets have much larger intake runner ports. I’m afraid that I will reduce the gasket coverage between the intake and the heads. I think the part number is Victor MS-15186. Just waiting for them to arrive. I’ll check back.