'73 Cuda 340 exhaust manifold heat shields - what was original setup

[Aus_Cuda]

Hi all,

Trying to get my Cuda all back to factory spec.
I have located a set of correct exhaust manifolds but what was the correct factory setup in regards to heat shields.

I know the driver side had the shield for the intake heat riser but what was on the other side  (if anything) ??

Thanks..

[burdar]

Nothing on the PS.  The manifolds would have been installed on the heads with NO gasket.  They are both machined surfaces and don't require one.  70-71 had a different style manifold and used a heat shield/gasket on the DS to keep heat off the plug wires.

[dakota]

Nothing on the PS.  The manifolds would have been installed on the heads with NO gasket.  They are both machined surfaces and don't require one.  70-71 had a different style manifold and used a heat shield/gasket on the DS to keep heat off the plug wires.

I'm planning to put the 340 for my 70 Challenger back together with the stock cast iron exhaust manifolds.  When I took the manifolds off, there was just a pair of regular gaskets (no heat shield on the driver's side).    Are there modern spark plug wires that are better able to handle the heat on the DS, or should I just plan on getting the gasket with the built-in heat shield? 

[burdar]

I know there are boot covers you can buy that are designed to protect the wires. It all depends on what look you are after. If you want a factory look, you need to buy the metal gasket/shield for the ds.

[dakota]

Thanks burdar.  I think I'll order the heat shield.   I don't think "mostly stock" is a class in any car show, but that's what I'm going to end up doing.

[dakota]

I'm finally ready to hang the stock exhaust manifolds on my 70 340 for what I hope will be the last time.   I have the driver side heat shield.   Do I need to install a regular gasket with it too, and if so is there's a preferred sequence like regular gasket against the head, then the heat shield?   

Also, any suggestions on using (or not using) a sealant with the manifolds?  The regular gaskets I have are Felpro MS-90460 like these:

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/FEL-MS90460/

[joelson6]

i would say no you don't need the gaskets, but, as burdar pointed out, machined surface from the factory didn't use a gasket.
the heatshield is the gasket. if you put another gasket over the heatshield, you run a greater risk of blowing out the gasket
and now the exhaust is leaking there. for the passengers side, the factory had nice new machined surfaces so there was no
leaks without the gasket. but over the years of heat cycles, the manifold can warp a bit. that's when you use the gaskets.
had that problem on the 383 in my Newport. had to have the manifolds machined true. the gaskets would always blow out
after about 3 months.