Kooks Small Block Ford Header Gasket 3in Inline Bolt Pattern Multi-Layer Aluminum

Multi Layer Aluminum Exhaust Gasket for Small Block Ford Headers with 3 Inch Inline Bolt Pattern

The PY-8013-AL is a multi layer aluminum exhaust header gasket for small block Ford engines using the 3 inch inline bolt pattern configuration. Small block Ford engines have a long history in performance applications from racing to street builds, and the header gasket is one of the most critical sealing components in the exhaust system because it must maintain a leak free joint between the cast iron or aluminum cylinder head and the stainless or mild steel header flange through thousands of heat cycles. This gasket uses multi layer aluminum construction to provide the combination of surface conformability and consistent clamping load retention that performance header applications demand.

The 3 inch inline bolt pattern specification of the PY-8013-AL identifies this as the correct gasket for small block Ford applications where the exhaust port bolts are arranged in a straight inline pattern at a 3 inch spacing, which is a defining characteristic of the classic small block Ford head design. Using a gasket with the correct bolt pattern ensures the flange holes align without interference and the gasket ports match the head ports for optimal flow and sealing. This is the gasket to order alongside Kooks small block Ford headers for a properly sealed, complete exhaust installation.

Key Features

• Multi layer aluminum construction for excellent conformability and sealing durability
• 3 inch inline bolt pattern matches classic small block Ford cylinder head layout
• Precision stamped for accurate port opening and bolt hole alignment
• No gasket sealant required
• Compatible with Kooks small block Ford header applications
• Suitable for performance street and race small block Ford builds

What's Included

• this gasket multi layer aluminum exhaust gasket set for small block Ford 3 inch inline bolt pattern (quantity as required for application)

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 3 inch inline bolt pattern mean?
The 3 inch inline bolt pattern refers to an exhaust port configuration on small block Ford cylinder heads where the two exhaust port bolts per port are arranged in a straight line with approximately 3 inches of center to center spacing. This is the classic arrangement on traditional small block Ford heads.

What small block Ford engines use the 3 inch inline bolt pattern?
The 3 inch inline pattern is used on traditional small block Ford V8 engines including the 289, 302, 351 Windsor, and related variants. Confirm your specific head casting matches this pattern before ordering.

Can this gasket be reused after header removal?
No. Multi layer gaskets should be replaced when the header is removed. Always install fresh gaskets for a reliable seal on reinstallation.

Is gasket sealer required with this gasket?
No. Multi layer aluminum gaskets are designed to seal without sealant. Using sealant can interfere with proper gasket function.

What is the advantage of multi layer aluminum over a single stamped gasket?
Multi layer construction provides spring back behavior that maintains clamping load across heat cycles, while single layer stamped gaskets can take a permanent compression set and lose their sealing force. The aluminum layers also conform well to minor surface irregularities on the cylinder head face.

Will this gasket work on a high compression small block Ford race engine?
Yes. Multi layer gaskets are widely used in high performance and race engine applications where elevated pressures and temperatures would quickly defeat conventional gaskets.

Does this gasket fit both the driver and passenger side cylinder heads?
The set provides coverage for the complete installation. Contact us to confirm total piece count for your specific header application.

What torque should I use with this gasket?
Use the torque specification in your Kooks header installation instructions for the applicable small block Ford application.

Can I use this gasket on an aluminum small block Ford head?
Yes. The multi layer aluminum construction of this gasket is appropriate for use with both cast iron and aluminum cylinder head materials.

Is this gasket the same used in Kooks production small block Ford header kits?
Yes. This gasket matches the gasket specification used in Kooks small block Ford header production for this bolt pattern application.

Installation Instructions

1. Clean the small block Ford cylinder head exhaust port surface, removing all old gasket material and debris.
2. Do not apply gasket sealer to this gasket or the head surface.
3. Position each gasket over the exhaust port with the port opening aligned and the bolt holes registered to the cylinder head.
4. Bring the header flange to the head and thread all bolts by hand before applying torque.
5. Torque bolts to the specification in your Kooks header installation instructions, using a crossing pattern from center outward.
6. Re torque after the first heat cycle for proper gasket seating.

Prop 65 Warning

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.