just a really quick question, whats the most effective means of cutting exhaust gaskets? or should i just give up and get it done at an exhaust specialist. i just figured it'd be handy to know how to do.
Here's how I make gaskets when I'm stuck for a genuine one. Keep in mind that I'm not talking specifically about exhaust gaskets. A lot of guys could describe this procedure but pics always help. Plus I've been meaning to document this for my Techs anyway so here goes - Ingredients - 1. The flange which you're making the gasket for. 2. A ball peen hammer. 3. A coach bolt which almost fills the bolt holes on the flange. 4. Gasket material. Some of the stuff I've got is $50.00 or more per square foot so I used cardboard for the pics, OK ? Trace the flange onto the gasket material. Cut it out with scissors or snips. It doesn't have to be perfect around the edges. Sit it on the flange. Hold it firmly & use the coach bolt to cut the bolt holes. You may need the hammer to tap it through with. Use a second bolt to help hold the gasket in place, plus grip it firmly. Now use the ball peen hammer on an angle to mash away the part you don't want. Strike the gasket where it meets the lip of the hole. Tap gently, don't try to mash through in one go. Do a woodpecker impersonation. Some really thick gaskets may need to be flipped over part way through this process. It's a bit agricultural but it works well enough. Cheers from Mick.
that's a really good one! except the material i am using is the metal kind. maybe i should try something else... i read on an sr20 forum that using muffler cement is a suitable substitute, i'm pretty skeptical about that one
I've never tried this trick with the metal sandwich gasket material. It would be interesting to hear from others who've worked with that stuff.
