OEM vs. Aftermarket gaskets?

[patdttr225]

Hello Group,
Should I buy factory Ford or aftermarket intake manifold and valve cover gaskets? All recommendations will be appreciated.
Thanks,
Pat

 

[Rhett]

I had a set of Ford gaskets and a set of Felpro gaskets. I Ford ones felt and looked more durable than the Felpro gaskets. The Ford ones were stiffer and had re-enforcement. The Felpro ones seemed more cheaply constructed. So I chose to use Ford gaskets. Then again, I have never used Felpro so I can't comment on how reliable their gaskets are...

 

[rydinhigh]

with things like gaskets I would go with the ford ones.

 

[patdttr225]

Thanks for the advice people,
I went to the Ford dealer and picked up the OEM gaskets. The manifold gasket looked different than what came with the Explorer and must be a newer design. They cost more than aftermarket, but I didn't want any problems because of the time to fix it again.
Thanks again,
Pat

 

[Kamaaina]

I would imagine that the factory would put in some pretty good gaskets. They don't want to see a vehicle coming back for warranty service for something as simple as a leaking gasket. Aftermarket gaskets are good, as well, as long as they're name brand.

 

[Rhett]

I agree, Ford must have redesigned the manifold gaskets because the new OEM ones were a little different than the original ones that were in my truck.