advise on intake install

[90blue5.0]

advice on intake install

I am installing my systemax intake and want to know if I need to put any silicone on the intake gaskets. The thing is that it is mounting to stock heads and I am using stock gaskets therefore the crush ring on the stock gaskets may not be crushed since the intake ports are so big on the manifold. I checked with Holley to make sure that I can use the stock gaskets and they said that it would be OK but I am worried about it leaking. What do you think?

 

[66 Tiger]

According to the mechanic who advised me on my intake swap, you shouldn't use any sealant on the intake gasket where it sit's on the heads. I did use some RTV sealant on the front and rear gaskets that came in the pack.( I used the felpro 1250 gaskets ) TMOSS ported my lower, & I still have my stock heads, so I was a bit concerned like you with the intake ports being larger & all. After double checking with TMOSS I went ahead with the install & have not had any probs at all. Good luck with your install.

 

[90blue5.0]

So use no silicone at all except on front and back seals. Can anyone confirm this?

 

[boris]

If your gasket kit cam with cork end seals, throw them away and squirt about a 1/4" bead of good O2 sensor safe silicone (I like Permatex Ultra Black) across instead. Be sure it's really clean. If you use the rubber ones, just drop a dab of silicone at the ends where it meets the heads. You don't need any sealant on the actual intake gasket unless your surfaces are pitted around the coolant passages. If so, you might want to apply a very small amount to fill the pits. Be sure to let it cure at least a few hours before you start it up.

 

[shallchr]

Agreed! I use the high temp RTV and use it on the front and back and only on any pitted areas. Now I use the aluminum gaskets and they seal alot better. Throw the cork out and just use RTV. The cork will not stay in place on install and leaks 95% of the time. It also helps to check the bolts after running for a little while to make sure they are still at the right torque specs. Intake leaks suck.