Date:         Mon, 24 Mar 2008 21:42:51 -0400
Reply-To:     Allan Streib <streib@CS.INDIANA.EDU>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Allan Streib <streib@CS.INDIANA.EDU>
Subject:      Re: exhaust gasket question 2.1
Comments: To: David Kao <dtkao0205@YAHOO.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <597077.81020.qm@web82701.mail.mud.yahoo.com> (David Kao's
              message of "Mon\, 24 Mar 2008 17\:46\:59 -0700")
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

David Kao <dtkao0205@YAHOO.COM> writes:

> Is it a good/bad idea to make your own exhaust gasket using sheet
> copper available from hardware store? Has anyone tried this? I will
> soon begin to dismantle my 84's engine and replace the tranny at the
> same time.  The engine will receive a set of new Cofap and a pair of
> used heads.  I can anticipate need of a set of new exhaust
> gaskets. The gaskets seem to crap out quickly and not cheap. I am
> seeking an alternative.

I have successfully made gaskets from bulk gasket paper many times,
but I would think that cutting the copper precisely might be pretty
tricky.  Also exhaust gaskets are not just copper, they have some kind
of fiber material as well (at one time it was probably asbestos; not
sure what is used now).  I don't think it would be worth the effort,
personally.

Allan
--
1991 Vanagon GL