I run sprint headers with nothing but the header bolts supporting the whole mess and in 10 years I have never had a gasket failure or a loose bolt.

Again as long as the clamping pressure is even it is a no brainer, notice plane old allen head bolts and lock washers. I just like the allen's I use them all over the motor, only a personal preference not a speed trick.

I think if you just get OEM or a descent after market gasket, make very sure the clamping pressure is even. Start from the center ports and work to the end you should be just fine. Starting from the two center ports will help flatten the flange if there is some skew from welding.

Looking at your gasket picture, looks to me that one side was paper they are commonly shipped by some of the header builders. Why I have no idea cause the price of a reasonable header gasket is small potatoes.

Look at the port in the head, if it is round then by all means use the round profile, if rectangle get that profile.

Header Gaskets Sbc - Speedway Motors, America's Oldest Speed Shop

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