is this the correct exhaust gasket?

[Adam32]

I am just replacing the silencer which connects to the down pipe. You can see from the pictures the original gasket, along with the new gasket to compare. The centre hole is the same diameter and the basic perimeter of the shape the same, however the new gasket has oval holes rather than round. The new gasket also has a raised part and indented part depending on what side of the gasket you look. The new gasket also has raised and indented parts near the bolt holes. In contrast, the original gasket was just flat both sides and could be fitted either way round (not sure about the new gasket whether it is side specific?). Also the original was thicker, and the new seems quite thin.

Despite these differences, it lists as a crossover part for my vehicle on all the car part stores catalogues.

What do people think?

[Adam32]

GreenV8S said:

I think those raised sections are to focus the clamping force in that area to form a seal. You will probably find the original gasket had some sort of hard 'fire ring' around the bore which served a similar purpose. It looks like a suitable replacement to me. Unless fitting / removing is hideously difficult I suggest you give it a try.

With regards to the raised sections, is it side specific, or can side 1 or side 2 be fitted at either pipe end?

[Adam32]

GreenV8S said:

If you're asking which side the raised sections need to face, it wouldn't make any difference if everything is in good condition. If one of the surfaces you're trying to seal is pitted/damaged, you might find that seal works better with the recessed face towards the damaged surface.

I purchased a second hand exhaust, so both sides are a little pitted / damaged. They are certainly not like new from he factory. If I don't get a good seal / leak what shall I do? Would some sort of liquid gasket be the way to go, such as high temperature silicone?

[Adam32]

okay many thanks guys

[Adam32]

Just to update that it worked and there are no leaks