Best Performance Exhaust Header Gaskets of 2025

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Performance Exhaust Header Gaskets are essential components for any high-performance engine. These gaskets are designed to provide a tight seal between the exhaust manifold and the cylinder head, preventing any leaks or loss of power. Made from high-quality materials such as graphite, steel, and copper, these gaskets can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures, ensuring long-lasting performance. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit different engine configurations, and their precision engineering ensures a perfect fit every time. Whether you're building a race car or upgrading your street machine, Performance Exhaust Header Gaskets are a must-have for any serious engine builder.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Mr. Gasket Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets Bb Chev Cover #TOP 1
Mr. Gasket Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets Bb Chev
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Edelbrock 7227 Exhaust Gasket Cover #TOP 2
Edelbrock 7227 Exhaust Gasket
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Remflex 8053 Exhaust Gasket Cover #TOP 3
Remflex 8053 Exhaust Gasket
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Performance Exhaust Header Gaskets

#TOP 1

Mr. Gasket Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets Bb Chev

5911
No Color
No Size
Mr. Gasket Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets Bb Chev Cover
Mr. Gasket - 5911 Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets Bb Chev

Mr. Gasket Header Gaskets are high-quality exhaust gaskets specifically designed for Bb Chev vehicles. These gaskets are made from a durable high-temperature steel core with a graphite facing that provides excellent heat resistance and thermal conductivity. The expanded steel core ensures stability and maximum torque retention, eliminating gasket failure. Mr. Gasket Header Gaskets also conform to and seal minor surface irregularities, ensuring a tight and secure fit. Additionally, these gaskets can be trimmed if needed for modified port applications. With their superior design and construction, Mr. Gasket Header Gaskets offer reliable performance and help transfer heat away from the cylinder head, ultimately improving engine efficiency and longevity.

What We Like
Durable steel core
Excellent heat resistance
Maximum torque retention
#TOP 2

Edelbrock 7227 Exhaust Gasket

7227
Gray
Edelbrock 7227 Exhaust Gasket Cover
Edelbrock 7227 Exhaust Gasket, Gray

Edelbrock Exhaust Gasket is a high-quality gasket designed for exhaust manifolds and headers. Made from EnCore HTX-900 and a dense non-asbestos fiber core composite material, it ensures high heat resistance, load retention, and sealing performance. With a 50% recovery rate for expansion, it enhances performance and durability. The two graphite-coated, heat-resistant fiber blended sheets offer excellent sealing, keeping your exhaust system in top shape, ultimately improving your vehicle's performance and longevity.

What We Like
High heat resistance
Excellent load retention
Increases performance and durability
#TOP 3

Remflex 8053 Exhaust Gasket

8053
Remflex 8053 Exhaust Gasket Cover
Remflex (8053) OBX Exhaust Header Connector Gasket, (Set of 2)

The Remflex 8053 Exhaust Gasket is designed for OBX headers 3-bolt, 2 hole, set of 2, 1-3/4 inch pipe, header tube connector flange, 4-into-2/2-into-1, Bolt hole spacing: (A) 4-5/8 inch x (B) 3-1/4 inch. The gaskets have no rubber binders or composite materials that will shrink or harden due to time or temperature, thus eliminating the need for frequent retightening of flange bolts. With a standard 1/8 Inch thickness, the gaskets can fill any pits or gaps in the flange surface up to 1/16 Inch by crushing 50 percent.

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting
No need for frequent retightening of flange bolts
Fills any pits or gaps in the flange surface up to 1/16 Inch

Mr. Gasket Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets

5901
No Color
No Size
Mr. Gasket Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets Cover
Mr. Gasket - 5901 Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets Sb Chev

These Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets are made of high-temperature steel core/graphite faced exhaust material which provides excellent heat resistance and thermal conductivity to transfer heat away from the cylinder head. The expanded steel core offers stability and maximum torque retention to eliminate gasket failure. Additionally, the gaskets conform to and seal minor surface irregularities, and can be trimmed if necessary for modified port application. These gaskets are vehicle-specific, making them easy to install.

What We Like
Excellent heat resistance and thermal conductivity
Stability and maximum torque retention
Conforms to and seals minor surface irregularities
#TOP 5

Edelbrock 7204 Exhaust Gasket

7204
Black
Edelbrock 7204 Exhaust Gasket Cover
Edelbrock 7204 Exhaust Gasket , Black

Edelbrock Exhaust Gasket is designed for SB Chevy engines. With a thickness of 0.0625 inches and a port size of 1.50 x 1.50 inches, this gasket ensures a secure fit for your exhaust system. The black color adds a sleek look to your vehicle. Its two-piece configuration simplifies installation and maintenance, making it user-friendly. The gasket provides a tight seal, preventing exhaust leaks and optimizing engine performance.

What We Like
Secure Fit
Sleek Design
Easy Installation
#TOP 6

Vibrant 1463 3-Bolt Exhaust Gasket

Vibrant 1463 3-Bolt Exhaust Gasket Cover
Vibrant Performance Vibrant 1463 3-Bolt High Temperature Exhaust Gasket

This exhaust gasket by Vibrant is perfect for custom-fabricating your vehicle's exhaust system. Made from flexible graphite, it can withstand high exhaust temperature. The easy bolt-on installation design makes it convenient to use.

What We Like
Durable material
Can be used for high temperature exhaust systems
Easy to install with bolt-on design
#TOP 7

Mr. Gasket Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets

5928
No Color
No Size
Mr. Gasket Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets Cover
Mr. Gasket 5928 Ultra-Seal Header Gaskets Ford 302 Oval

The Mr. Gasket Header Gaskets are designed to fit oval ports with specific dimensions, providing a reliable seal for your engine. The expanded steel core enhances stability and keeps the torque intact, which means you can count on them to prevent gasket failures. With a graphite facing, these gaskets resist heat and efficiently transfer it away from the cylinder head, ensuring optimal performance. Additionally, they can adapt to minor surface imperfections, making installation smoother and more effective for various applications, from street driving to racing.

What We Like
Heat resistance
Stable torque retention
Adapts to surface irregularities
Versatile applications
#TOP 8

Remflex 6008 Exhaust Gasket for Mopar

6008
Remflex 6008 Exhaust Gasket for Mopar Cover
Remflex 6008 Exhaust Gasket for Mopar, (Set of 2)

Remflex 6008 Exhaust Gasket is a universal fit gasket made from flexible graphite material that can fill any gaps or pits in the flange surface up to 1/16 inch, eliminating the need to retighten your flange bolts. It comes in a 2-piece set and has a standard 1/8 inch thickness. The gasket has no rubber binders or composite materials, so it will not shrink or harden due to time or temperature.

What We Like
Flexible graphite material can fill any gaps or pits in the flange surface up to 1/16 inch
No rubber binders or composite materials, so it will not shrink or harden due to time or temperature
Standard 1/8 inch thickness
#TOP 9

Mr. Gasket 453 Exhaust Gasket

No Color
No Size
Mr. Gasket 453 Exhaust Gasket Cover
Mr. Gasket 453 High Performance Exhaust Gasket

The Mr. Gasket Exhaust Gasket is designed to meet strict environmental standards while ensuring a tight seal. This means you can rely on it for durability, helping to prevent leaks that could affect your engine's performance. If you have modified ports, the gasket can be easily trimmed to fit your specific needs. Whether you're replacing your original equipment or enhancing your vehicle for street, drag racing, or oval track use, this gasket is versatile enough to suit various applications. Made from a high-temperature acrylic blend, it stands up to the rigors of high-performance driving.

What We Like
Excellent sealing capability
Durable and long-lasting
Customizable for modified ports
Versatile for various applications
#TOP 10

Percy Patriot Exhaust Seal 66031

66031
Gray
Percy Patriot Exhaust Seal 66031 Cover
Percy Patriot Exhaust Seal-4-Good Chevrolet SB D-port LT1 1.375in 66031

The Percy Patriot Exhaust Seal is a vehicle-specific component designed for Chevrolet SB D-port LT1 models. With package dimensions of approximately 55.88 cm in height, 1.27 cm in length, and 10.16 cm in width, it is compact and easy to handle. Weighing only 0.159 kilograms, the lightweight design facilitates straightforward installation and reduces strain during setup. Its part number, 66031, ensures you are getting the correct fit for your vehicle, providing peace of mind when replacing or upgrading your exhaust system. This product is manufactured by Taylor Cable, a brand known for its quality automotive parts.

What We Like
Vehicle-specific fit
Lightweight design
Compact dimensions
Quality brand assurance
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do exhaust gaskets make a difference?

Yes, exhaust gaskets play a crucial role in the performance of the engine. A faulty exhaust manifold gasket can lead to a noticeable loss in power and acceleration. Leaking gases negatively impact the engine's performance and efficiency, affecting its overall power output and responsiveness.

2. Should I use RTV on exhaust manifold gasket?

RTV should only be used on specific areas of the gasket, such as corners or stepped casting areas with gaps. It should not be applied to the entire gasket, which should be installed clean and dry. By using a small amount of RTV in these areas, you can ensure a leak-free assembly and proper sealing.

3. Are copper header gaskets better?

Copper header gaskets are known for their heat-conducting properties and direct metal-to-metal contact with the block and head. This allows them to transfer heat efficiently and minimize the risk of heat-related failures. Compared to composite and MLS head gaskets, copper gaskets have a lower tendency for heat trapping and hot spot formation.

4. Are thicker exhaust gaskets better?

In general, the thinnest exhaust gasket that can be used is often the best option. Thinner gaskets minimize compressibility while providing better load retention and recovery properties. However, there may be certain situations where thicker gaskets are necessary to compensate for specific factors or requirements.

5. What is the strongest type of head gasket?

The Multi-layer steel (MLS) head gasket is considered the most durable type. It is made up of multiple layers of steel, providing a strong seal. However, due to its design and construction, MLS head gaskets can be more difficult to install compared to other types.

6. When should you not use RTV sealant?

RTV sealant should not be used in applications that will have direct exposure to gasoline, such as in powersports vehicles. In such cases, it is recommended to use a solvent-based gasket maker instead to ensure proper sealing and avoid any potential issues with gasoline compatibility.

7. Can you use Permatex on exhaust?

Yes, Permatex offers an exhaust repair kit called Permatex 1000® Plus Exhaust Repair Kit. It is designed to repair cracks and splits in mufflers, tailpipes, and exhaust pipes. This kit can withstand high temperatures over 1000°F (540°C) and includes a ready-to-use foil-packed bandage and support wire for easy application.

Editor's Notes

During our performance exhaust header gasket research, we found 24 performance exhaust header gasket products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,032 customer reviews through our big data system to write the performance exhaust header gaskets list. We found that most customers choose performance exhaust header gaskets with an average price of $34.25.

The performance exhaust header gaskets are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of performance exhaust header gaskets, including Mr. Gasket, Edelbrock, Remflex, Vibrant Performance, Taylor Cable. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 265 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.