Welcome to the world of aftermarket stuff. Loosen the head pipes on the engine and get all of the bolts started. Tighten the cast iron elbow joints. Sometimes you can use 2 gaskets on the one pipe that is really far off. If you get the urge to use the copper high temp silicone be careful not to get any into the pipes. If you do plan on a future O2 sensor. If using stainless hardware use an anti-seize so you tighten things down without the stuff galling up on you. 

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Gregory Smith
Sent: Wednesday, August 29, 2012 11:53 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: '88 Exhaust help

Hi gang,

I recently had to replace my header pipes and 2-1 manifold.  I'll spare the horror stories of getting the old rusty parts off.  Except to mention the one broken stud that took more than 4 hours to coax out using heat, PB Blaster, vice grips and patience.  And a sawzall is sure handy.

Anyway, the new pipes and gaskets are great, but I can't seem to get the dual-pipes-to-manifold joint to seal, where I have a noticeable leak.  

I think I need to loosen everything and start tightening at this particular joint, but any suggestions are appreciated.

Gregory Smith
'88 Vanagon GL

Smith Design Studio
Small Building Company
Olympia, WA
360-239-0429
gregoryfsmith.com