How to buy a quality exhaust manifold gasket

An exhaust manifold is a component of a vehicle's exhaust system that connects to the engine's cylinder head, collects gases, and combines them from individual exhaust ports to the rest of the exhaust system….

An exhaust manifold is a component of a vehicle's exhaust system that connects to the engine's cylinder head, collects gases, and combines them from individual exhaust ports to the rest of the exhaust system.

The gasket is an incredibly important part of this system as it keeps the occupants of the vehicle safe by preventing toxic exhaust gases from leaking back into the car or truck and harming those in it.

Exhaust manifold gaskets can often crack with age and due to the frequent heating and cooling cycles it is subjected to. Normally, metal expands and contracts as the temperature changes; manifolds and gaskets are no different and over time this change in size and shape even affects the casting of the metal and the manifold or gasket may begin to crack.

Things to keep in mind to make sure you're getting a quality exhaust manifold gasket:

• Materials: Many exhaust manifolds are made from cast iron, although some are made from tubular steel or stainless steel. You may also find that the catalytic converter is part of the overall exhaust manifold system.

• SizeA: There is a wide range of exhaust manifold gasket sizes to suit each specific vehicle, and the year the vehicle was made affects which part you need.

Attention: Exhaust manifold gaskets are often sold as part of the exhaust manifold itself and are actually considered part of the mounting hardware.

A warning: Do not buy used exhaust manifold gaskets. Since this is the least durable part of the manifold system, used gaskets are unlikely to last long.

The entire exhaust manifold and gasket system is essential to keep your passengers safe and your vehicle to meet emissions testing standards. Keep them in top shape by replacing the gasket and manifold as needed.

AutoCars supplies quality exhaust manifold gaskets to our certified field technicians. We can also install the exhaust manifold gasket you purchased. Click here for a quote and more information on Exhaust Manifold Gasket Replacement.