I bought a new GSL today - an 84 with a 2-year-old stock port S5 13B w/ TII endplates and NA rotors - freakin EXACTLY what I was gonna build, so now I'm just gonna swap the engines and trannies, then sell the 84 newly-12A-ified car to one of my buddies in Iraq - just leave it in Kansas for when he gets back. Here's my problem, though.....

I took off the intake manifold to see if my 4-port Dellorto setup would work, and it will. On reinstalling the Holley 650, I now have a coolant leak. The o-rings wouldn't seat for ****, maybe 3mm too big. I'll have to reseat everything, but do I just stuff them into the recesses or what? Just don't want to do this a third time later on.

 

My intake manifold doesn't have cooling passages, so do I put the o-rings between the block and manifold gasket?

 

You can seal the holes on the block up. Just use some welch plugs or something to block it up and seal it with RTV silicone.

 

exactly. I've used foreign coins inside and out to keep the silicone in tact. well to be exacct, I've used filipino coins (since I cant use it in the US anywyas )

btw, I recommend using the new silicone from pep-boys etc etc. i cant remember the name but it comes in long tube similar to the bathroom caulkings. it holds better than the old red/black silicone. i've used it once in my intake manifold.. had to use rubber mallet to remove it from the engine.

 

two quarters and some grey permatex will do just fine...

 

Or 2 20mm freeze plugs. No sealant, no leakies.

 

unfortunately, in my own experience, permatex dont hold as good as the mckeena. I have several carb set ups, and when I get bored, I tend to change carbs for no reason. The permatex silicone tends to come loose after a few R&R. However, since I started using mckeena, I never have any problem with coolant leak.

 

I like the idea of using freeze plugs, but what vehicle uses them? Where would I find the things?

 

u can get freeze plugs at any parts store, AutoZone, Advanced, etc.

 

Right, but what freeze plugs do I ask for?

 

I need to plug mine off but the local auto parts store doesn't carry the manifold gasket that I need.....

 

Just ask for 20mm freeze plugs. They are a little tricky to get into place, mainly getting them straight in. I use a socket that fits right into the inside part of the plug so it helps keep it straight when you hammer it in.