Jipopotamo

Ok
Before the 22re in my 87 4runner 5spd blew, it had a exhaust manifold leak from the backside of the number four port. You could hear the tick tick tick of the air and feel it with your fingers.

I just got done rebuilding the engine and I now have a brand new head on it with brand new studs. Same old exhaust manifold though and I just confirmed that the leak still exists. Does this mean my exhaust manifold itself is warped? Or have I not properly torqued down the nuts? It's a brand new head and new gasket kit. The only old part is the manifold so I suppose it's bad.

Can I get the manifold itself decked and repaired or is it a lost cause? If I have to buy a new manifold should I just go up to headers or oem manifold? Brand new engine, no major upgrades besides a engnbldr cam, RV model. Also, as I am flat broke now and can't buy a new manifold or repair this one, is it ok to drive the engine with that leak or is that going to cause major issues? Thanks for the heads up. Take care.

Jipo

RustBucket

iTrader: (1)

Try a remflex gasket

Otherwise someone should have a used exhaust manifold for sale on the board here

Jipopotamo

Cool, thanks for the tip.

rustypigeon

I'll bet you it's warped. Mine was leaking at the number 4 cylinder as well. I checked it against a straight edge and found .080" warpage. It cost $60 dollars to machine it flat. That was this past fall and it's been running fine since.

highonpottery

iTrader: (1)

you could always try some copper rtv in there as a quick fix and see if it helps.

Jipopotamo

I'm ok with a ghetto fix for now. I just need to carry over til I grab some more cash. Copper RTV can handle those circumstances? Also, what about the grey exhaust repair putty stuff they carry at the parts stores? I have used some before on a exhaust pipe with a hole and by applying it liberally and giving it plenty of time to cure, the leak went away. Is there a preference between those two options?