After listening to the grandson's 73 Dart 225/auto idle yesterday, it is clear that the exhaust will need attention. Although I have been unable to pin it down just yet, I think the leaking exhaust centers around either a cracked exhaust manifold, or a leaking header pipe connection.

I've got a spare intake and exhaust and thought about putting them on the engine. I luckily was able to pull them apart with a little help from a grinder cutting off the nuts on the two bolts (near the carb) that usually break anyway. What bolts (grade, etc) do you recommend for replacing these two?

I want to make sure both the intank and exhaust manifold are square before putting them on the engine. Do you recommend bolting the to together and having my machinist run them on a lathe as a pair to true them up, or should I have them done separately? My inclination is to do them as a set.

I've read of several instances where exhaust manifolds have cracked over time. Where on the manifold should I pay particular attention to the possibility of cracking?

Finally what head gasket is recommended for a street driven car. Nothing fancy...just something reliable.

Thanks.

John

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"When you find a big kettle of crazy, it's best not to stir it." - Pointy-haired Boss

1964 Valiant V200, 225/Pushbutton 904
BBD, CAI, HEI, LBP, AC, AM/FM/USB, EIEIO