Header Help

[flipside_nv]

I have and 85 4wd 22RE and the header gasket is blown.  I bought the truck with the header and have no idea what kind it is.  It doesn't match up with anything on Lc Engineering.  I was hoping someone would recognize it and let me know.  If not than does anyone know a good place (store or web site) that has a good selection of header gaskets?  Any good ideas would help too.  I hope the hyperlink worked.  Thanks.

[Prismo]

Can't get to it. You need to be logged on to view it. Hit reply, additional options & attach the picture

[brainlessfool]

Have you tried it with out a gasket? it's got a nice thick flange so try it. and what do the air tube look like? you maybe can get the stock ones from toyota for that.

[reklund5]

run a stock Toyota manifold gasket...they seal every time.  Also, replace the bolt that were holding it on ( I assume) with studs and nuts.  It'll hold way tighter for way longer!

Ryan

[flipside_nv]

Will the stock gasket fit without modification?  I found out that it's a Downey header and found the gasket at their web site.  Toyota would be easier though.  Two of the studs are stripped and I need to put a couple of Heli-Coils in.  Anyone know what size?

[brainlessfool]

I belive there 10mmX1.50 ? if not it has to be 10X1.25

[Uncle Jesse]

it's a 10x1.25

The stock toyota gasket will work on most headers, the worst case being that you have to bend the heat shield a bit.  As far as quality, you can't beat it.  Built in fire rings.  Get the air injection gaskets from toyota as well, because some of the aftermarket ones don't line up right, and I think the toyota ones have fire rings in them as well. 

By the way, definitly go with studs, although on some headers the lower most rearward hole needs a bolt to be able the get the header in.  Since you have all the studs/bolts out now, and you are getting the helicoil kit, go ahead and helicoil all of the holes now.  You'll have to do them all sooner or later, might as well save yourself a header removal or two by just doing them all now.

[flipside_nv]

I picked up the helicoils and the Toyota gaskets today and they do line up perfect.  It's a Downey header and it fits without bending the heat shield.  Now that I'm ready to go I discovered I need a right angle drill or at least that would be the easiest way unless someone has a better idea.  I have a Dewalt 14.4vlt cordless and it won't fit level.  Are electric drills typically smaller?  I've never had one.  Thanks for the help.   

[BigMike]

If the new header gasket still blows out, run a file across the flange of the header and see if it's warped.

Also, I've found that puting some old grease on both sides of a new gasket helps it to seal. Once the exhaust gets heated, the grease boils and smokes, and it gets cauterized, in a way, and seals itself on both sides.

BigMike

[brainlessfool]

If the new header gasket still blows out, run a file across the flange of the header and see if it's warped.
BigMike

I did that to my head, used a big long course file. helped a lot. yes with the studs out. 

[Uncle Jesse]

I bought a right angle drill just for helicoiling the exhaust studs.  But, on the rear studs, I believe I still needed a short bit to clear the booster.  I can't remember now, but I know I had to get the short bit for some reason.

[Prismo]

I had to use a right angle drill with the short bit for the back ones. Uncle Jesse is correct.

[Uncle Jesse]

make sure and put a piece of tape on your drill bit at the depth of the heli coil you are using.  That way when you get to the tape on the bit you know you've gone far enough.  That'll keep you from drilling through the head. . .

[flipside_nv]

Thanks for the tips!   

[yotaboy79]

or pull the head i use copper coat on mine and it worked good