Question about Changing header gasket

[adrian1]

On my 1986 951 My exhaust header gasket nearest to the firewall is messed up. I will be changing them very soon and was wondering when unbolting it from the cylinder head will it be loose enough to slide the new gasket on the studs into place or will i have to unbolt the entire manifold?

Thanks , Adrian

[bholmes]

Depends on the type of gasket, if it is the type that is "u" shaped where the bolt goes, you certainly can. If it's the type that just had a hole for the stud, then you'll need to remove the header. I have removed the header completely several times and it's not to bad.

[Techno Duck]

The gaskets have holes for each of the studs. Something you might try and do is remove the studs by double nutting and slide the gasket in. Not sure if you will be able to slide them between the header or not. Studs are a love or hate kinda thing, they either turn right out or are a pain in the butt to remove.

[adrian1]

If i do have to take it off can i reuse the old gasket from the other end?Or do i haved to buy a new one?

[bholmes]

Buy new ones!! It's not worth the savings.

[fast924S]

I agree with bholmes, WHy not replace all 4 while you are in there, they arent that expensive. Just make sure you use alot of penitrating oil

[adrian1]

I know what you mean about the 4 cause i already ordered all of those. I was just thinking that i can change them without taking off the manifold but i remembered all the piping for the turbo will make it stiff, so last night i had to order those 2 seals. They are round am i correct?