Old exhaust gaskets are jammed in there; how do I get them out?

[Taliesin]

So I got a gasket set for my oil pan replacement, as well as for my stator replacement. In the package was a set of 4 exhaust gaskets. Call me a dork, but I had no idea there were exhaust gaskets, and my exhaust has been seeping oil from the leftmost pipe. It's been really annoying.

However, I can't for the life of me get the old gaskets out. This ran for who knows how long with cracked o-rings, so it ran pretty hot and lean. I'm thinking this old gaskets are somehow bonded to the inside of the exhaust port.

Is there a major problem with placing the new gaskets right over the old? I suspect that's going to be a huge problem, but I'm having a heck of a time with them. Suggestions?

[OldVet66]

Wet them down with penetrating oil. It should soften them up some. If they are really stuck, get an edge of the metal part with some needle nose pliers and they will unravel (look at how the new ones are made). They look like they are harder to get out than they really are. I use two sets on my Vance and Hines exhaust to compensate for the bent flanges from the previous owner.

[Taliesin]

Thanx, Vet. That's exactly what I did after I posted my query. Figured it couldn't hurt.

I actually did get a piece of the metal with some pliers, but it was still really stuck. I'm going to hit them again with PB Blaster before I hit the sack, and then work on them again tomorrow afternoon.

I'm so stoked, as I wasn't sure where this oil leak was coming from. The valve cover gasket seemed fine. I think it's oil from the #1 exhaust.

Thanks. The GS Resource is a Godsend!

[Turtleface]

I used a small flat head screwdriver and a ball peen hammer. Tap the blade in between the gasket and the exhaust port wall, and then just lever them out. Don't use a larger hammer, as you don't want to gouge the metal. Worked like a charm for me.

[Taliesin]

Good to know, thank you! I'm sure I can find a smallish hammer around here somewhere.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

I doubt that you are leaking oil from the exhaust pipe. It's probably leaking onto the exhaust pipe from somewhere else; tach gear seal, valve cover, or even blowing around from the cam chain tensioner on the back of the motor. The exhaust gaskets are to keep the headers from leaking exhaust gases, making funny noises, etc.


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Taliesin]

I was afraid of that. lol

Well, I'd still like to get this taken care of. I'll figure out where the leak is coming from next. Thank you!

[Nessism]

To get the old seals out just use a large screwdriver and pry them out. No need for PB Blaster or what have you. And I agree with Cliff, exhaust gaskets have nothing to do with sealing oil. You have a leak elsewhere.