So I did the mini header swap from my 99 to an 04. The problem is that the "y" pipe isn't meeting the manifold on one side right, leaving a gap and puttering. I tighten the nut, and it's to the point I'm scared that it will twist and break the stud. Curious if it's safe to put some RTV to seal it up, I have the black rtv and it says not to put in on anything involving gasoline. How about the red? It says it's safe up to 650°. Or could I use the gasket material and cut my own out? I just wanna be safe with.

Thanks!

 

did you make sure the old gaskets came off. there are 2 of them about the size of a dollar coin and if only one comes off that could be causing the problem having them doubled up.

idk just trying to help i did the mini header to my truck and did not encounter this problem

 

Yea they came off. I found the problem, the stud was bent on that side. So I took a stud out of the old manifold to replace that one. I tried putting it in, felt like it was going in fine then it had a lose feel. Backed it out and all the threads on the stud are gone for the top part. I have one extra stud. I already put the y back on. I don't know if the threads are ok on the manifold. I guess I can test from the top to see if threads are still there. Going back to check.

 

Well had to improvise. Treads are gone on the manifold, so I put a bolt and nut to hold it shut.

 

get some exhaust sealant stuff from autozone