If I'm using a composite intake gasket as opposed to the tin bathtub gasket, do I need to use any type of sealer around the water jackets or intake ports and if so do I use the sealer on both sides of the gasket? Do I torque the intake manifold on with the same torque setting as the tin gasket? Thanks, Allen
?? all these sub 13 second buicks and no one has ever installed an intake manifold? Come on guys, I want to install my manifold tomorrow. If I'm not using the "bathtub" tin gasket, do I still need to apply RTV red or black around water jackets or intake ports? Allen
Allen, I didnt use anything on mine. All I did was, when I went through the head re-torque, I went ahead and checked all the intakes for tight also. I used the book torque the first time cold, then the second I just tossed a box wrench on and ''checked'' them, if you know what I mean ??? Worked ok for me, no problems here. Maybe someone else will chime in with some more help to prove me wrong,lol. Later....................
I have applied a thin coat of black or clear RTV just around the water passages. I used the factory torque spec also and I would also recommend rechecking the intake bolt torque also.
Black RTV around the water jackets. Just a thin layer spread around with your finger. Factory torque will work but its not as critical since your clamping a soft gaskets instead of a steel pan. They will seal with less torque. Make sure to put a dab of RTV at the ends of the rubber valley seals where they match up with the intake gaskets.
Use the factory torque. It's the only way to ensure that the bolts are providing the correct clamping force over time.
It's recommended to prevent hot oil splash on the intake. With a PCV valve it's mandatory else it would suck in oil.
