I've been told that it is imperative that I make an effort to fit the inlet manifold squarely on the heads to ensure that the coolant-jackets seal correctly. However, my first attempt at fitting the manifold resulted in a little coolant leaking onto the bell housing and my second attempt I think had it leaking into the valley and consequently into the oil. Now I say "I think" because I can't confirm it other than to say that I have a lot of coolant mixed with the new oil (no oil in the coolant though). I now have the manifold back off and I have also removed the heads to confirm that I don't have a head gasket problem and all seemed OK in that department.
Has anyone else had similar troubles getting the manifold to sit properly? My method of installation is to use quality gasket sealer on both sides of the gasket and then screw in two "pilot" studs in opposite corners (which I later replace with the correct bolts). I then tighten the bolts in the sequence recommended in the manual. Is there something else that needs to be done that I have missed?
PS I'm new to V engines. All my previous work has been on straights.
Has anyone else had similar troubles getting the manifold to sit properly? My method of installation is to use quality gasket sealer on both sides of the gasket and then screw in two "pilot" studs in opposite corners (which I later replace with the correct bolts). I then tighten the bolts in the sequence recommended in the manual. Is there something else that needs to be done that I have missed?
PS I'm new to V engines. All my previous work has been on straights.