Perhaps another stoopid question...
I'll soon be replacing/installing a good used OEM exhaust manifold w/CAT on 04 R53. Since there are no studs on the head to hold the gasket and header in place; Has anyone used any kind of hi-temp adhesive/sealant along with the gasket? Or is it customary to just dry fit it in place?

maybe a dumb novice question...but I'd just thought I'd ask beforehand.
Thanks.

 

I personally dry fit, once the header is in place toss in a couple bolts to allow the gasket to hang on then bolt it into the head.
Also you could use a magnet to temporarily keep the gasket in place.
Once you have 2 bolts started its pretty well a done job, don't overthink it!

Happy motoring!

 

Yep, I always dry fit as well. It is a bit of a backbreaking job to be honest but once you got the first in the rest will be easy.

 

Thanks for the advice and feedback friends!
I just picked up an M8 bolt yesterday, cut the head off and cut a slot in the end for a flathead screwdriver.
You get the idea.
Having never done a header on a Mini before, working alone in a Home Depot parking lot - This might help me to at least have the manifold something to hang on while I get the rest of the bolts lined up.

wish me luck

 

It’s not that bad. Did mine twice, eBay special split on me, when you look down back there you will see some are easy to get to and some need an extension. I just put the gasket on the header and held it in place
with one of the easier to reach bolts. Then lined up the gasket on the other side and slid another easy to reach one over there. Then fed the rest in by hand. Applied torque and done. Both gaskets went on dry. I replaced the bolts the 2nd time just because. I rechecked torque after a couple of heat cycles, then again at that next oil change.

 

Its pretty easy to put in, the header isn't super heavy, just use one bolt to pin it all together or slide a thin screwdriver into one of the holes to hold it while you line it all up.

You could also install studs if you wanted to, studs are better anyway