Exhaust Gasket Sealant?

quincydubois · Post by **quincydubois** » Sat Sep 23, 2006 11:43 pm

Just pulled out my copper exhaust gaskets to install new pipes. I will use new copper gaskets but I noticed that the old gaskets were installed with some sort of liquid or paste gasket sealer to provide a better seal. And the stuff actually had some elasticity left. Anybody know if this gasket sealant is neccessary to use with the new gaskets? What is it?

alimey4u2 · Post by **alimey4u2** » Sun Sep 24, 2006 5:30 am

I actually use high temperature silicone sealer for the sole reason to hold the copper gaskets while I install, having set them there the night before..... I "glue" them on the exhaust pipe flanges as it makes installation so much easier.

Not a real problem with the wire wound "asbestos" type as they just set up in the ports. Whether the sealant assists in the leak proof properties I do not know.......

PS If you anneal the copper gaskets you can re-use ( if not obviously deformed) as I have done. Heat them cherry red & whilst in that condition, drop them in a bucket of water to soften them.

cbx4evr · Post by **cbx4evr** » Sun Sep 24, 2006 10:05 pm

Ditto Larry on the Sillycone.

cbxtacy · Post by **cbxtacy** » Sun Sep 24, 2006 11:45 pm

I bend mine into a slightly oval shape so they won't fall out, install the pipes, warm the bike up and re-tighten the nuts, and have never had a leak. I only replace my gaskets when I drop one on the floor and can't find it.

Ken Gluckman · Post by **Ken Gluckman** » Mon Sep 25, 2006 12:14 pm

I just use a small dab of grease to hold the gasket in place during installation. Is there any problem with doing that?

Ken

Terry · Post by **Terry** » Mon Sep 25, 2006 12:33 pm

Ken Gluckman wrote:I just use a small dab of grease to hold the gasket in place during installation. Is there any problem with doing that?

Ken

No, other than some smoking when running until it burns off.