Downpipe/Exhaust manifold noise?, Dunno whats wrong... Options

[gnetik]

I had to change the downpipe or header pipe, whatever its called(the pipe that connects to the exhaust manifold and ends before the catalytic converter), because of a huge dent. I got another pipe from TAP and also got new gaskets from the dealership. After I installed these items, there was sort of a putting sound(sorta like a quiet machine gun) that came from around the recently installed pipe. I can't tell whether the sound is from vibration or exhaust/air leakage. I thightened the bolts as much as I could, is there torque specifications for the bolts that connect to the exhaust manifold or something? 6g celicas are sexy cars, but if they sound funky, they lose their sex appeal. Sorta like a hot chick who farts and has bad breath... get what i'm saying? haha! Well please forgive my unknowingness, and any help would be appreciated

[mikew04]

This same thing happened to me when i was replacing my head gasket on my old car, the exhaust mani wouldnt seal, and it did the exact same thing. I used new gaskets, but after i torqued it down the first time, and it didnt seal, they were finished with. Make sure all of the old gasket material is off, as this will cause it to not seal. The second time around i used RTV grey gasket maker (supposedly for high temp and high torque gaskets, and used for imports... i dunno.) Try using that, and just make sure it has time to properly seal and harden up. That worked for me, hopefully that should work for you too.