Header leak test?

[FrankSG]

Is there an easy way to check for an exhaust leak between my new headers and exhaust ports. I put a very thin film of high temp / sensor safe silicone on each side of the header gasket and then torqued them down. After running for about 50 miles, I checked to see if they had loosened any, but they were tight. I don't hear anything abnormal, but The paranoid person that I am wants to make sure that they don't leak.

Thanks
Frank

 

[Bferrari]

Use a tissue and hold it near the mating surface. You will visually see movement in the tissue if any air is escaping.

 

[FrankSG]

Thanks...great idea

 

[Chief Master Sergeant]

Use a small piece of rubber hose. Stick one end in your ear and use the other end to test around the entire mating surface. A leak will be obvious.

 

[Mtgrizzlymn]

Don't know if this is safe but I've always used a long lighter if it blows flame around there is a leak

 

[Blue Bastard]

Saw a leak test where a guy used a shop vac in the tail pipe on the BLOW option. Then used soapy water around the headers to check for leaks. Then it's not hot and running!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=i1AFZQ_dQMA

 

[Unaweep]

I used Sea Foam on my motorcycle, worked great to find the exhaust leak. It does smoke a lot, open the garage door.

 

[MarsChariot]

I have used a regular vacuum cleaner. Attach to tailpipe. If duals, just close off the other side with a rubber glove or something. Then go around with a piece of heater hose aimed at each connection. If there is a leak it will be fairly obvious.