Sealing header gaskets

Guaranteed way to keep a leak free header gasket? This is on a 460 but my 300 I6. I have always used the factory exhaust manifold gaskets like the crushed graphite gasket and have never had problems as long as the header bolts stay tight.

On this engine some of you know that the intake and exhaust gasket usually share the same gasket. I am debating on not using a gasket and just use copper sealant bead on the header and gasket on the intake. Or take a paper header gasket coating it with copper sealant front and back then letting it dry. (I have done this for ATV engines and works great, like a reusable gasket.)

Any suggestions? You would think by this day and time we would have solved the header exhaust leak issue.

Hi temp RTV

Curt wrote:Hi temp RTV

It's hard to hold the header, intake manifold and tighten down bolts while making sure it stays in the correct position. That is why I thought about coating from and back with copper RTV and letting it cure before installation. Maybe then it won't get every where.

Use studs instead of bolts. No need to struggle with holding heavy parts in position.