I would suspect there are flex issues associated with the fiber/metal
gasket vs the straight metal ones. A strict metal seal would essentially
make for a rigid joit - and that would increase the chances of failure
of the parts. The fiber/metal would give soem flexibility yet still
retain the exhaust gases.

Just my $0.02.

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver

William Greenamyer wrote:
> I have a question.  I know the need for the gaskets on the exhaust system
> since it makes the seal to prevent air leaks and noise.  On my 84 Vanagon,
> the gasket is fiber that is sandwiched between two sheets of metal to keep
> from blowing out the fiber material.  Problem is that the fiber eventually
> disintegrates anyway and compression on the metal pieces is reduced.  There
> are solid metal gaskets which I guess were used on earlier VW's.  I was
> wondering why the solid metal gaskets are not used on the Vanagon so that
> the fiber sandwiched gaskets don't have to be replaced?
>
> William
>
>
>