new manifolds - filing the paint????

[elltee]

Like a kid a X-mas, I just got my new manifolds and risers in the mail. The only verbage sent was a page stating that filing the surface was necessary. I noticed that the connecting surfaces were very bumpy and were painted (like the remainder of the unit). What should I use to file and to what degree do I file? Do I need to see the "silver" of the iron? Also, any suggestions on getting the old manifold bolts out. Is the gasket enough protection or should I use some type of sealant? If so, which type?

 

[bruce stocker]

Re: new manifolds - filing the paint????

no sealant in on the block. if u get it inside the intake say goodbye to the valves. you must file with a realy fine file till its perfectly flat or youl wind up with a leak eventually.

 

[elltee]

Re: new manifolds - filing the paint????

thanks bruce - FYI - the mastercraft dealer told me TO add extra liquid sealant - I don't remember the name of it. Now, I'm more confused.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: new manifolds - filing the paint????

I would block sand before I filed anything unless there are some really high parts to smooth.I spoke to an Osco tech re: sealant on mating surfaces.They dont recommend it in their litterature and the tech told me thats because if they did recommend it someone would wind up using too much and clog the water ports.He told me that they do recommend it but only to a qualified installer of the parts,which means it is necessary but DONT USE TOO MUCH!!!!!Hi-tack is good for this because it is sprayed on and you only put a light film.Hard to put too much of that.Charlie

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: new manifolds - filing the paint????

I used a box sander with 240 grit sandpaper. That will bring it to a nice shine. Then I used high temp RTV (a thin smear) on both sides before putting it together. No leaks no problems. I started using RTV a few years back (when Osco said not to) when I couldn't get a manifold to seal to a riser with out it. I figured I would change them out later in the season. Soon after I found out you could use it (sparingly) so I left it like it was and it worked great for years. I then sold the boat .

 

[yoced]

Re: new manifolds - filing the paint????

I started using RTV a few years back (when Osco said not to)

I am glad it worked out for you. But in general the use of RTV will cause more problems than it solves - which is why Osco advises that you not use it. There are too many manifolds leaking out there *because of the mis-use* of RTV. <br /><br />LT: Flat and Square & Clean and Dry is what you are aiming for. If your manifolds and risers have bumpy paint on a nicely machined surface, then you can use laquer thinner or other solvents to remove the paint without damaging your surfaces.<br /><br />However, if the units are (for instance) the pieces from China then they could have a dipped ceramic coating on them and you may have to file or sand to get down to metal.<br /><br />When you have Flat and Square & Clean and Dry, then you can add whatever gasket prep compound the manufacturer suggests. <br /><br />Or, substitute your own desires and expertise.