Consequences of exhuast leak?

[Stang_1973]

I have a leak where the exhuast manifold meets the header. I tightened the bolts but air still comes through you can hear it and feel it with your hand. A guy told me that i should not run the engine like this because it can result in a damaged valve. Is this true? I am going to change the gasket as soon as I get a chance but I just wanted to verfy if what the guy told me is correct.

 

[12sec67]

he is correct

 

[Hack]

It's possible to burn an exhaust valve if the exhaust is too open. It's also possible for the hot exhaust gases to erode material from the engine or exhaust manifold sealing surfaces. It's best not to run an engine with an exhaust leak if you can avoid it.

 

[67CoupeDriva]

There is also that annoying possibility of death by carbon monoxide poisoning to consider.