Exhaust Manifolds, Gaskets or Just Sealant?

[KenF]

For the factory Tiger exhaust manifolds, the shop manual says to use "graphite grease" between the head and manifold. I used Permatex Anaerobic Flange Sealant last time, which I think I saw suggested on a 50's T-Bird website, and it worked fine. Manifolds are flat and true. I'm getting my engine back together (long story), and want to be sure I'm following the best known practice.

So, use gaskets? Just sealant? If so, which kind.

Thanks, Ken

 

[ABSunbeams]

Soupy gaskets has an excellent exhaust gaskets. Will not burn through have them on some SBF & FE exhaust manifolds. No relation to the seller.
https://www.ebay.com/str/soupysgaskets
By rights if you mill the head & manifold surfaces flat, no need for a gasket.
Al

 

[Austin Healer]

I've always just used the felpro ex. manifold gaskets. I've never had one leak. Most of the issues I have had are in keeping the downpipes tight to the ex. flange. Finally resorted to av-loc nuts. Had a Mk1a in that I recently sold... engine had never been out of the car... Had standard issue exhaust manifold gaskets, nothing special. The goofy Ford locktabs are available from NPD