How do I know which 3-bolt gasket size I need?
The size is determined by the Inside Diameter (ID) of your exhaust pipe. If you have a 3-inch (76mm) exhaust system, you require a 3-inch 3-bolt gasket. It is also helpful to measure the distance between the bolt holes (center-to-center) to ensure alignment with your specific flange.
Can I reuse an old 3-bolt exhaust gasket?
We strongly recommend against reusing gaskets. Most 3-bolt gaskets are designed to compress once to create a seal. Once they have been heat-cycled and compressed, they lose their ability to "spring back," making them highly prone to leaking if reinstalled.
Do I need to use RTV or exhaust sealant with these gaskets?
While our high-quality composite gaskets are designed to seal "dry," a small amount of high-temp sensor-safe RTV can be used on older, pitted flanges to help fill minor imperfections. However, for new or machined flanges, a dry gasket is usually sufficient.
What causes a 3-bolt gasket to "blow out"?
The most common causes are loose flange bolts, warped flange plates, or excessive backpressure. Ensuring your bolts are torqued correctly and using a heavy-duty 10mm flange plate will significantly extend the life of your gasket.