Top Picks For Exhaust Manifold Related Parts

The exhaust manifold is attached to the engine cylinders and collects the exhaust gases from the engine and channels it into a single or dual pipe depending on the configuration. The exhaust manifold is the first component of the exhaust system and significantly influences the performance of the engine. Apart from receiving the exhaust gases, the exhaust manifold also allows the unused or unburnt gases to combust in the manifold itself. They are very durable in design and are offered as original equipment by the manufacturers. However, they can vary in design because V-type engines have two exhaust manifolds, one for each bank of cylinders, whereas inline or straight engines have just one exhaust manifold. Most exhaust manifolds feature an oxygen sensor that checks the level of oxygen in the exhaust gas and sends the data to the electronic control unit (ECU), which controls the air-fuel mixture.

Like exhaust manifolds, headers are also designed to route the exhaust gases from the engine to the exhaust pipe. The difference between the two lies in the construction and performance. Headers are individual tubes designed for each exhaust port of the cylinder and meet in a larger tube called a collector. Headers are lighter than exhaust manifolds and are made from materials like stainless steel, mild steel, titanium, etc. The construction and design of the exhaust headers produce lower back pressure and allows the engine to breathe more easily. Headers are mostly used on high-performance vehicles and are used as an aftermarket upgrade to give your car more power. Headers are made in different layouts, the most common of them being the 4 into 1 design, where all four pipes converge into one collector pipe.

Although exhaust headers are made from tough materials, prolonged exposure to thermal stress, dirt, dust, and moisture can cause them to fail with time. A failing exhaust header will usually result in an excessively loud exhaust due to a crack or a leak. The vehicle may also produce a hissing noise from the leading headers, which can increase on accelerating. Decreased power, acceleration, and low fuel efficiency are a few other symptoms that are caused by a problematic header. A failing exhaust header can also cause a foul odor to emanate in the engine bay, which can find its way into the passenger compartment. If you notice these signs, then your header might be failing and needs to be checked. Additionally, it is important to visually check for any signs of corrosion, cracks, or leaks in the exhaust headers because a hot exhaust can leak and melt electrical wires and damage other components. Do not allow leaking or damaged headers to go unnoticed and replace them immediately to avoid any further damage or driveability issues.

An exhaust manifold gasket is a mechanical seal used for sealing the two mating surfaces, i.e. the exhaust manifold and the cylinder head of the engine. It is usually made from multi-layered embossed steel and often from high-temperature fiber materials, ceramic composites, etc. The quantity of an exhaust manifold gasket in an engine may vary depending on the type of the engine, as an inline cylinder arrangement will have one exhaust manifold gasket, whereas a V6 or a V8 will require two (one for each bank of cylinders). The exhaust manifold gasket ensures the engine performs smoothly by offering a leak-proof seal between the exhaust manifold and the exhaust ports in the engine.

Usually, the faults with a failing exhaust manifold gasket are associated with wear and tear caused over time. Although a failing exhaust manifold gasket is more likely to be witnessed in an older vehicle, periodic inspections are important to identify potential problems before they escalate and take a toll on other parts. Any loud noises from the engine, like hissing, spitting, or tapping sounds, can be a cause of a leaking exhaust manifold gasket. Furthermore, a failing manifold gasket can also lead to reduced fuel efficiency, burning smells from the engine bay, and decreased power or acceleration. The smell can also be accompanied by faint smoke, which can be a safety hazard. Therefore, if you notice any of these symptoms and suspect that your exhaust manifold gasket is bad, you should get it checked and replaced.

Exhaust manifold bolts and studs have the simple role of fastening the exhaust manifold firmly against the cylinder head and ensuring that the exhaust manifold gasket is properly squished between the two for a tight seal. They are made from tough materials having high tensile strength like stainless steel, black oxide chrome-moly, etc. so they can withstand the extreme heat generated by the exhaust system and the engine. The manifold studs and bolts can also be chrome or zinc plated for protection from corrosion.

Many exhaust manifolds are made from fine grain cast iron that expands and contracts during heating and cooling cycles. Each cycle inflicts tension and stress on the studs or bolts that hold the manifold in place, causing them to eventually fail and often deform. Other factors like moisture, dirt, dust, coolant or oil spills, and road salt also contribute to corrosion and deterioration of the manifold bolts. Improper tightening or cross-threading is another reason that the bolts and studs get damaged. This can also weaken the pressure of bolts against the exhaust manifold and the gaskets causing them to leak. A simple visual inspection while carrying out routine maintenance is enough to figure out the condition of your exhaust manifold studs and bolts. If you notice the aforementioned signs of corrosion or physical damage, you should get your exhaust manifold bolts and studs replaced. Also, if you are changing your old exhaust manifold, it is advised to replace your old manifold bolts with new ones to ensure proper fit and seal.

The purpose of an exhaust pipe flange gasket is to prevent exhaust leaks and offer a perfect seal between an exhaust manifold and exhaust pipes. The exhaust pipe flange gasket is also known as a donut gasket and is designed with a bevel on both sides and a smooth flat inner surface for a better clamping force and a secure seal. It sits between two mating components in the exhaust system to prevent exhaust leaks and is designed with fire-resistant materials so it can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures.

The exhaust pipe flange gaskets undergo a lot of stress due to repeated heating and cooling cycles, which cause them to wear out. Once the exhaust pipe flange gasket of your vehicle wears out, it will show few symptoms like loud exhaust, exhaust leaks, and poor performance. If a failing exhaust gasket goes unchecked, it can also cause toxic and harmful gases to enter the cabin. It is recommended that you replace your exhaust flange gaskets while replacing your exhaust pipes or other exhaust components because these gaskets can not be reused. Furthermore, the exhaust gaskets play an important role in keeping the exhaust system pressurized and any damage to them causes problems with the exhaust system of your vehicle. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor these symptoms for a potential exhaust leak and replace your gaskets to ensure a properly functioning exhaust system.