leaky exhaust joint

[mterrens]

I recently reassembled my Coupe's exhaust system, and now find that the
joint where the heat exchanger connects to the exhaust pipe leaks, big time.
There is a circular copper gasket that fits between the two; it is in place
and the connection is quite tight and seems properly lined up. Despite all
this, there is quite a breeze blowing out of the seam. What to do? Should
I consider cutting a gasket from blank exhaust gasket material? Something
else? I suppose I could break out my tube of red 700 degree instant-gasket
stuff, but it's cheating and probably won't last.
Steve

[dealadayray]

Hi Steve;
You ar most likely missing the almost 1/4 in. thick washer that goes behind
the round 1/2 in thick copper cased seal. You need both to complete the
seal.
Bill

[mterrens]

Bill,
Uh oh. I wonder where those bits got to...actually I don't recall seeing
them when I pulled the exhaust pipe off. Are you referring to items # 2 & 3
on page 4-2 of the coupe parts manual? The book doesn't show anything on
page 4-4, even though (I think) they would rest against item #6, the exhaust
pipe flange. I suppose I could give Honda a call; if I am really lucky they
use the parts for newer cars and still stock them. Or if they don't, any
ideas on a workaraound?
Thanks,
Steve

[mterrens]

Bill,
Well I looked everywhere for an exhaust gasket except the obvious place -
still stuck onto the end of the heat exchanger on my old engine! I popped
this off... http://www.honda600coupe.com/exhaust_gasket.jpg
Is this is a stock item? It's not exactly a washer and it's definately not
copper. It appears to be asbestos, and fragile - I guess I shouldn't play
with it too much. Anyway, it's going into the car tomorrow; I figure
that'll settle my leak issue.
Steve

[dealadayray]

Steven;
Look at the two ends connecting the doughnut styled exhaust gasket because
the cover to the gasket is copper the inside is asbestos. There is also a
metal ring (Ferrous metal I believe) under the doughnut shaped gasket. I
have found that if you put it together without that ring there may still be
a leak.
But they fall apart and then you need a new one. Middas had some one time
when I went there in search of something to fit.
Bill