How to Install a Big Block Chevy Manifold
You should have the correct manifold installed on your vehicle to make sure that the engine runs at its highest efficiency. Installing a manifold on a big block is not very difficult, if you are confident about it and get the necessary help.
Required Materials
Silicone sealant
Non-hardening sealant
Oil
Rags
Required Tools
Metric shop tools (ratchet, torque wrench)
Protective clothing
Step One: Prepare the Block
Check all the gaskets to make sure that they are properly sealed. If bolts are in need of sealing, you should seal them right away. Pay particular attention to the gasket heads and the water ports.
If the decks of the block or the heads were machined, they may appear a bit lower. If the intake has cork or rubber gaskets, the block will not fit tightly enough to the manifold. Instead of these gaskets, use a bead of silicone to make an airtight connection.
Step Two: Installing the Manifold
Check to make sure that everything looks correct with the oil splash guard. When you are satisfied with it, lower the manifold into place. For this step, be sure that you have enough help to get the manifold bolt holes to line up the very first time. There is a certain amount of adjustment that needs to be done to get the holes to line up.
Step Three: Sealing Potential Leaks
Be sure to understand that most manifold bolts will ultimately end up near the head area. This means a lot of oil will be present. To prevent leaks, use a non-hardening sealant on the bolt threads to prevent leaks.
Step Four: Bolt Sequencing
As you go about tightening bolts on the manifold and block, be sure to understand the tightening and loosening sequences that need to be used. Although some may vary, most blocks and manifolds begin the tightening and loosening sequence from the middle, near the plenum, and work outwards.
Step Five: Torque in the Bolts
Ensure that you torque each tightened bolt to the same rating using a torque wrench. In this particular installation, however, you may not be able to reach each bolt with a torque wrench. If this occurs, you can use a box wrench, though this does not give ideal results.
Step Six: Remember Safety
Working with heavy steel parts and an even larger vehicle means that you should pay attention to safety. Make sure that those helping you are also made aware of safety precautions that you take while installing the manifold.
Particular precaution should be taken when lowering the manifold into place. You should also take care when handling silicone as a sealant.