Exhaust Gasket

So, I've been using my Haynes manual to assist in the disassembly process of my bike, and I have come across something I hope you guys can clear up for me.

According to the book, there is a gasket of some sort between the exhaust and the cylinder head on the XJ650 J. My exhaust did not have any gasket when I removed it, as can be seen in the photo below, but it did not sound like there was any exhaust leak when I previously ran it. The cone shape seemed to be a very tight fit in the head.



I assume that if it is needed, I should be able to get this part from Chacal.

Also, is it advisable to use anti-seize on the exhaust retaining nuts?


On a side note, I thought I'd show a little more progess that I have made. It is amazing how much a little bit of sanding and polishing can clean up the aluminum bits on our bikes! Also note the shiny side cover in the picture, compliments of danno! Now I just need to take off and buff the other one on the bike.



I have also managed to clean a lot of rust off the chrome parts using the recommended steel wool and WD-40. I'll try to get some pics of my ignition coil installation as well, I couldn't find too many pictures of the dyna coils here, so I figure it can't hurt to share!

 

The gaskets sit inside of the head's exhaust ports. Bend a paper clip in to a hook shape to pull out the old gasket. Not sure about the anti-sieze compound on the studs,but it sounds like a great idea.

 

The exhaust gaskets are stuck in the head, They are copper colored round gaskets, kind of look like o-rings. Right now they are black from the exhaust. Wipe the inside of the exhaust port and you'll see them.
Nice job on polishing. Do a search about using steel wool on aluminum, it can leave steel in the aluminum and make rust stains.

 

I always use anti-sieze on my exhaust studs. Helps get them off the next time. Use it also on the spark plug threads.

 

Thanks for the tips guys, I will definitely have another check at the exhaust ports tomorrow. If they are in there, should I replace them when I reassemble everything, or can they be reused?

Mlew, no worries on the steel wool, I only use that on the chrome bits. For the aluminum, I start with 600 grit sand paper to remove the old clear-coat, then work everything smooth with 800 and 1000 grit papers, followed by some Mothers aluminum polish. It's not a quick process, but it looks sooo much better when finished

 

Pederacer....yes, I do carry the exhaust port gaskets.

And if they didn't leak BEFORE, then they might not leak after, either.....but they sure are cheap to replace while you've got the exhaust apart right now!!!

And yes, use anti-seize on everything possible!