Gaskets
No matter how often you drive your heavy-duty truck, you want your exhaust system to work correctly. When parts of the system fail, gases can leak into the cabin. Exhaust gaskets are a crucial part of this system, as they form a seal between your engine block and exhaust pipes to prevent these leaks.
Types of Exhaust Gaskets
Your engine has multiple exhaust gaskets, which are often categorized by material and location. They come in multi-layer steel, graphite, ceramic, copper, and other durable materials. You may see them listed as:
- Manifold gaskets: These gaskets serve as a seal between your engine’s cylinder head and its exhaust manifold to keep gases from leaking before they reach the catalytic converter and muffler.
- Flange gaskets: These gaskets are located between any mating flanges in your exhaust system at the joints that connect major sections of the system.
- Donut gaskets: These gaskets are round, like donuts, and usually made of graphite or metal composites to withstand heat and vibration. Donut gaskets seal the exhaust pipe to the manifold exit.
- Header gaskets: This term often refers to aftermarket exhaust gaskets that improve performance.
Why You Need New Exhaust Gaskets
Exhaust gaskets are exposed to high levels of heat and pressure as they work, which causes them to wear out. Replacing them when you see the early signs of damage helps you maintain engine performance. It also keeps noxious gases out of your cabin as you drive.
Driving with damaged gaskets disrupts fuel flow in your vehicle, which reduces your engine performance. It can also burn valves and cause other engine damage.
How To Tell if You Need To Replace Your Gaskets
Common signs your exhaust gaskets are wearing out include ticking and hissing inside the engine. You may also smell gas or engine fumes as you drive or notice your check engine light come on.
Damaged or worn-out gaskets also reduce your ability to accelerate. If it’s taking longer to go from 0 to 60, check your exhaust system and replace any worn-out gaskets. You may also notice lower fuel efficiency or an engine that overheats more often than normal.
Pay close attention to the sounds your engine makes. A tick is more likely an exhaust gasket, while a hiss usually signifies an intake gasket.
How To Choose the Right Exhaust Gasket
Start with your owner’s manual to find the OEM specifications, unless you have a custom exhaust system. Write down the inner diameter, outer diameter, and bolt patterns to find gaskets that match your measurements.
Next, determine which gasket is damaged and choose a replacement made of the right material for performance. For example, if you’re driving an older vehicle with warped or rusted flanges, a graphite gasket will provide a better seal.
Once you know what you need, Truck Pipes USA will provide a high-quality part made in the USA. We carry exhaust gaskets from multiple well-known brands. We can also provide gaskets that work with aftermarket parts if you’ve customized your exhaust system. We offer fast shipping and excellent customer service. If you’re not sure what you need, contact our customer service team.
