Coolant Leak in Vee

[Mike Wattam <MikeWattam@domain.elided>]

Hi Peter

Number one, don't panic.

The inlet manifold gakets have gone to meet their maker.  When you get the
replacement gaskets you will see both the 'rears' have a slot for the
waterway just below the air intakes.  When the gaskets pack up, they leak
into the vee rather than being sucked into the ait intakes (nasty!) and
this is aided by cut-outs in the head to act as waterways.

But you need to also investigate why they started leaking.  Something you
did?

Don't forget before refitting the manifold, to check the flanges are all
true and flat, if not they will definitely need refacing.  You can do this
by offering up the manifold to the heads and chercking any bowing with
feeler guages.  Also check the alloy threads are in A1 condition, if not
have them helicoiled.

Do NOT use sealant on the gaskets, they should be greased so they can
settle into the correct position.

Only torque up the bolts to the correct torque, excess pressure only bends
the flanges and increases the probability that  the gaskets will leak.

Mike Wattam
Triumph Stag Register