Topic: Which side of the intake gasket goes on the head?

[65springtime]

I am about ready to reinstall the intake manifold back on my 289 block. There is a smooth side and the other side of the gasket has the number on it (901031) and is not smooth. It is a Fel-Pro blue gasket. Was told by someone that it does not make a difference but seems like it should. Any help appreciate. Man, I sure miss Soaring. He always had the answers. Thanks, John

[TheJ]

My guess would be that the numbers face up but I am not sure.  I will ask a local engine builder what he thinks.

[Joe AZ 2 PA]

I am about ready to reinstall the intake manifold back on my 289 block. There is a smooth side and the other side of the gasket has the number on it (901031) and is not smooth. It is a Fel-Pro blue gasket. Was told by someone that it does not make a difference but seems like it should. Any help appreciate. Man, I sure miss Soaring. He always had the answers. Thanks, John

I'm not sure either John but will ask at work tomorrow. I miss Soaring to. If he didn't know he'ld find out or tell you where to look. . . . 

PS: Did you see the pic's of my 'Stang that I posted? . . . .

[65springtime]

PS: Did you see the pic's of my 'Stang that I posted? . . . .

Yes I did and very nice. You did a great job. Do you take it to shows?

[Joe AZ 2 PA]

Use to but it's being redone again. . . . . Man I love this stuff. . . . .

I'll post some during pic's but it won't be finished until summer if all goes well. . . . 

[TheJ]

I've asked and looked around and the general consensus seems to be that it doesn't matter.  The reasons I found are that the manufacture would tell you if it did and it would say in the instructions or right on the gasket.  To be 100% sure I would talk to Fel-Pro and ask them directly.

Hope this helps

[65springtime]

Thanks TheJ. That makes since. I would think it would say on the gasket.
"This side up" and on the instruction it did not say anying about one or the other. Think I will go with the flat side down. 

[Joe AZ 2 PA]

My source thinks the same way. . . . 

[Rat Fink]

Make sure the water passages are open threw the gasket. Other than that, makes no difference.