FI intake manifold gaskets do not let baseplate sit flat

[Michael B.]

I am installing the FI baseplate on my '63 L84. I am using VR15315 gaskets (purchased at Paragon). When I mock them up on the engine it seems as if the metal blocking plates on the gaskets (in the middle of the gaskets on each side) are preventing the baseplate from sitting flat on the head surfaces. (it rocks fore/aft)

When I mock the baseplate up with conventional intake gaskets (without those block off plates) it does sit flat and does not rock.

If I torque the intake from center towards front and center towards rear, will this flatten out the center section of the 15315 gaskets, and allow the intake to sit flat? I don't want to crack the manifold or have a poor seal.

Thanks,
Mike

[Paul Y.]

Re: FI intake manifold gaskets do not let baseplate sit flat

No block off plates are needed on a fuel injection adapter plate as there is no choke heat passage in that area. The gasket set sent to you must be a universal one that has that in there for carburetors and is unused in your application.

[Michael B.]

Re: FI intake manifold gaskets do not let baseplate sit flat

I guess I am confused, the Paragon catalog says it required for FI:

PN 931K "Intake Manifold Gasket Kit.....1963-65 w/FI, includes block off plates"

https://www.paragoncorvette.com/corv...talog/c2/#13/z

[Mike M.]

Re: FI intake manifold gaskets do not let baseplate sit flat

paul is correct. no block off plate on original intake to head gaskets. mike

[Dan D.]

Re: FI intake manifold gaskets do not let baseplate sit flat

The only difference I know of with FI gaskets is the FI set contain 2 distributor gaskets, with a notch for the pin, and to provide for the spacer block. No block off plates for FI - as everyone is saying.

-Dan-

[Michael B.]

Re: FI intake manifold gaskets do not let baseplate sit flat

Thanks guys. I guess I'll let Paragon know! Appreciate the help.

[John D.]

Re: FI intake manifold gaskets do not let baseplate sit flat

Michael, That gasket seems to have created a lot of confusion over the years. FYI. ?The gasket is not a repro but a recut Fel-Pro gasket.
I am sure that is causing you baseplate to rock.
While you are waiting for the proper gaskets get a straight edge and use in on the sides of the base plate. Make sure it's flat.
I wouldn't try and torgue the baseplate to shape if it is not as that causes the ears to break, etc. John

[Michael B.]

Re: FI intake manifold gaskets do not let baseplate sit flat

Thanks John. Appreciate your expert input!!

[Jerry G.]

Re: FI intake manifold gaskets do not let baseplate sit flat

I had to machine my adaptor and the air box feet to get them all straight and flat. This is old stuff and who knows how it's been treated over the years.