Exhaust Manifold Gasket, Upgraded Multi-Layer

This composite gasket has two graphite layers bonded to a steel core and is ideal for vintage applications such as Jaguars, where sealing surfaces are not always flat. Why? Scuffing occurs due to the big difference in expansion characteristics of the aluminum head and the cast iron exhaust manifolds. Both "grow" when heated, but the aluminum grows faster and more than the iron. As a result, both surfaces slide against the gasket face at a different rate, which scrubs material off the gasket face over time. As small bits become dislodged on the gasket face, leaks can occur, and eventually, the gasket burns through. The graphite material allows the two surfaces to "slide" across the gasket (due to graphite's lubricating qualities). This material was developed in the early 1980s when Honda had a head gasket failure problem with conventional gaskets between dissimilar materials. Graphite solved the problem and came into wide use in the aftermarket for all kinds of gaskets, particularly head and manifold gaskets that join different metals.