1955: Should I go with or without

[Dave Suesz]

exhaust manifold to cylinder head gaskets? I have in the past used GM p/n 3711675 gaskets between these, but they are no longer available, and one of them is now leaking. Before going with aftermarket gaskets, I thought I'd get some opinion on whether I should go without, as GM did when the engine was new.

[Dennis C.]

My experience over the years...

I've had better luck doing it the way the General did (with no gaskets) than adding them to try to solve a problem that wasn't there to begin with... Of course, the surfaces involved need to be reasonably flat as was the case from the factory...

[Joe L.]

Re: 1955: Should I go with or without

Dave-----

I'd check the manifold mating surfaces with a precision straight edge or just have them surfaced to ensure they are flat and true. Then, go without the gaskets.