Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Manifold gasket

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero manifold gasket — purpose and servicing

Yes, a manifold gasket is absolutely used on the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero. Factory literature and parts systems confirm it: the Mitsubishi Motors Factory Service Manual for first‑gen Pajero/Montero (1983–1991), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, and AU/NZ gasket catalogues from brands like Permaseal all list both intake and exhaust manifold gaskets for the common 1987 engines (2.5‑litre 4D56 diesel/turbo‑diesel, 2.6‑litre 4G54 petrol, and market‑dependent 3.0‑litre 6G72 V6). Those manuals specify gasket replacement whenever a manifold is removed and include torque sequences for refitting.

The manifold gaskets do a quiet but vital job. On the intake side, the gasket seals the manifold to the cylinder head so the engine doesn’t suck unmetered air. That keeps idle smooth, mixtures correct, and on turbo‑diesel 4D56T models, helps the turbo build proper boost. Some variants also pass coolant near the intake flange, so the gasket prevents cross‑leaks. On the exhaust side, the gasket contains hot gases, protects the head and manifold faces, and stops that tell‑tale ticking and chuffing under load that robs power and can let fumes into the cabin.

While they’re not a scheduled replacement item, they deserve attention during servicing—especially on older Pajeros that have seen hard touring or towing. Telltales include a hissing intake leak, a metallic tick from the exhaust on cold start, soot traces at the flange, a whiff of exhaust in the cabin, or sluggish turbo response on a 4D56T.

• Use quality gaskets matched to the engine, follow the FSM for whether composite, graphite or multi‑layer steel is specified.
• Never reuse crushed gaskets. Clean both mating faces back to bare metal, don’t gouge the alloy head.
• Check the manifold with a straightedge—warped flanges will defeat any new gasket. Replace tired studs and distorted nuts.
• Follow the FSM torque values and tightening sequence, in stages, on a stone‑cold engine. Re‑check torque after a few heat cycles if the manual calls for it.
• On 4D56T, inspect turbo flange and EGR connections at the same time, leaks often travel in pairs.

A careful gasket change restores quiet running, proper fueling, and keeps the trusty first‑gen Pajero feeling lively under the bonnet—exactly what most drivers want before the next track or beach run.

Popular questions

Does the 1987 Pajero actually have intake and exhaust manifold gaskets?
Yes. The Mitsubishi factory service manual for the first‑gen Pajero/Montero, the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue, and AU/NZ gasket manufacturer fitment guides all list dedicated intake and exhaust manifold gaskets for the 1987 models across 4D56, 4G54 and (market‑specific) 6G72 engines.

What symptoms point to a failing manifold gasket on a 1987 Pajero?
Common giveaways are a ticking noise from the exhaust side on cold start, soot marks around the exhaust flange, a hissing intake leak, rough idle, sluggish boost on 4D56T, and a hot/exhaust smell near the firewall. Any of these should prompt an inspection under the bonnet.

Can a home mechanic replace the manifold gasket, or is it a shop job?
A competent DIYer with a torque wrench can handle it, but seized studs on older Pajeros can turn it into a weekend. Soak fasteners in penetrant, have new studs and nuts on hand, and follow the FSM torque pattern. If studs snap or the flange is warped, a machine shop or mechanic is the safer bet.