Exhaust and tunning

[Qckslvr]

So after listening to some more sound clips and reviews of the FVD Brombacher Sound Version, I ordered one. Along with a used set of headers and test pipes.

Now the last set of questions I have.

Should I use a traditional header gasket or the OEM stamped metal gasket. I know from experience that early Fords would crack their manifolds or damage the head if you used a header gasket. It prevented proper heat transfer from the manifold to the head.

Also should I wrap the headers and the test tubes with header wrap? Good or bad idea?

I am keeping my fingers crossed that no bolts decided to break on removal. I am skilled at bolt removal.... but what a pain.

Also are the exhaust manifold bolts/studs 6mm or 8mm? Dave mentions 6mm, but other sites say 8mm. I would like to be prepared for my project.

[Dave80GTSi]

Originally Posted by Qckslvr

Also are the exhaust manifold bolts/studs 6mm or 8mm? Dave mentions 6mm, but other sites say 8mm. I would like to be prepared for my project.

Oops, upon further reflection, I do believe these to be M8. Good catch!

Nevertheless, wise for to remove one and to measure it first to confirm, before you buy replacements.

You should be OK to reuse your OEM thin metal manifold-to-head gasket.

Thanks - DM

[Geof3]

Originally Posted by Qckslvr

So after listening to some more sound clips and reviews of the FVD Brombacher Sound Version, I ordered one. Along with a used set of headers and test pipes.

Now the last set of questions I have.

Also should I wrap the headers and the test tubes with header wrap? Good or bad idea?

Bad. The M96 is somewhat notorious for spark plug tube leaks, and even cam cover leaks to some degree. That oil will pretty much drip right on top of a header pipe potentially, coating the wrap in oil over time. I was going to wrap mine until I researched it and saw a few videos of fires from just this sort of thing. Definitely need to wrap your PS line though, a burn through of that is a major fire hazard. Also helps keep an already hot PS system a little cooler to avoid spill over from your PS res.