Hi

I'm using an original cast 1600 manifold on a standard head and keep blowing the gaskets out. I've tried no sealant, tried red sealant and it keeps leaking. Is there a foolproof goo and gasket combination that will fix this up? I never had this problem with extractors and thought the stock manifold would be less hassle.

Cheers

I would check that both the faces on the head and the manifold faces are completely flat. if they aren't the gaskets can blow.
Also check that you tension the nuts which prefferable should be brass.
Its not uncommon for these to vibrate loose and cause the gaskets to leak.
Hope this helps.
Cheers
Craig

Try running a straight edge across the manifold gasket face. If it is warped more than a few thou it will cause the gasket to blow no matter how much goo you put on it. Getting the manifold gasket face machined will fix this. Put some new studs and nuts while you are at it. 
 
Craig

Cheers for the replies. I have new studs and nuts but have been finding the brass nuts to be useless; they either come loose or strip out. I've been thinking about going stainless.
I'll get the straight edge out on the weekend and see what's bent.