head-to-header sleeves to prevent leaks?
 

I have exhaust leaks from running headers on a 3.2 because they don't have the sleeve that fits up into the head like heat exchangers do. Does anyone make a sleeve for this purpose? Or, does anyone make headers with this sleeve built in?

Your problem isn't the lack of sleeves, people run headers on 3.2's all the time myslef included. Those sleeves are just there to help the gaskets live a bit longer. So if you have leaks then either the header flanges aren't flat and sealing properly, the gaskets are burnt out or missing, or the headers aren't tight.

Are you using quality gaskets and assembly paste w/proper torque specs? Did you check your flanges for warpage? I don't believe the sleeves you are describing do much to seal the connection.

Good gaskets combined with flat surfaces from a decently built set of headers should provide a good seal.

You're going to remove the headers anyways....put a straight edge across the top...see if the flanges can be flattened out, filed, adjusted or replaced for a better seal.

If not, consider replacing the headers for a better set.

thanks guys!

i was also wondering if it would be worthwhile to make a set of said sleeves - but i never had any leakage issues with my headers on the 2.7

y'all just saved me from another fabrication adventure

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Rarlyl8 headers have the sleeves.

rarlyl8.com

I got the sleeves I needed to run 1 5/8" OD headers on a 3.2 from AASE Motors in Fullerton, they were cheap.

We fabricate 'sleeves' and weld into the headers. We do this on new headers before having them jet hot coated. These 'flame' shields protect the gasket and will assure that the gaskets last a long life. They work by keeping the super hot gas from coming in contact with the gasket surface. We also add them to the end of the headers where they fit into the buffler. They work, and are worth the effort. You will need to buy tubing of a close OD and turn them on a lathe til they are a snug fit into the header and into the heads of the 3.2 engine. I can get you some pictures of what we have done if you would like, and will send me a pm.