Intake gasket for a 56 tbird

[cjc56]

I notice that many vendors sell a intake gasket for the 312's that have a small hole in the center leg (both sides)to restrict the heat. Does anyone know why this is and if it is a good thing?

 

[46international]

they have the small hole so less heat enters the intake manifold so the paint will not burn off. don't know if it causes drivability problems.

 

[miker98038]

46I is correct. I was also told they were originally used on truck motors, expected to run under heavy load. Using them will lengthen warm up time, for the choke to come off. Many people block them completely, and remove the heat riser valve for better warm weather performance. Drivability will only be an issue in cold weather, or if you live in an area where carb icing is a problem. I've always blocked them, and never had any problem.

 

[cjc56]

Thanks for the help!