Parts for your 1997 Daihatsu Gran move-Exhaust gasket

1997 Daihatsu Gran Move exhaust gasket — what it does and how to look after it

Technical sources confirm the 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move is fitted with exhaust gaskets. The Daihatsu L601 (Gran Move/Pyzar) workshop manual exhaust section and the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue diagrams show an exhaust manifold gasket between the cylinder head and manifold, plus a sealing ring/donut gasket at the manifold-to-front pipe joint. Reputable aftermarket catalogues for this model also list these parts, which reinforces that an exhaust gasket is relevant and used on the 1997 Gran Move.

On this model, the exhaust gasket’s job is simple but crucial: it seals hot exhaust gases where metal faces meet, stopping leaks at the manifold and front pipe. That seal keeps things quiet, prevents carbon monoxide creeping into the cabin, and helps the oxygen sensor get clean readings so the engine control unit can fuel the HC-E/HD-series engines properly. A good seal also helps protect studs and flanges from hot gas erosion and warping.

Common signs it’s on the way out include a ticking noise on cold start that eases as the engine warms, a sooty mark around a joint, a sharp exhaust smell under the bonnet or near the firewall, and sometimes a drop in low-down torque or a new rattle as the leak torches a gasket edge. Any of those on a Gran Move is reason to check the manifold-to-head and manifold-to-front pipe joints.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, the gasket should be replaced whenever the manifold or front pipe is removed, or when a leak is confirmed. For routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect these joints at each service or WOF/rego check—especially on vehicles doing lots of short trips or those in coastal areas where hardware corrodes faster. When replacing, clean both mating faces properly, chase the threads, and use new nuts, springs and studs where possible. A light touch of high-temp anti-seize on threads can help next time, but always follow the workshop manual’s torque specs and tightening order to avoid warping the manifold.

• Only work on a dead-cold engine, penetrating oil the night before helps.
• Support the front pipe so it doesn’t hang on the studs.
• Fit the correct style gasket (MLS/composite at the head, donut/ring at the front pipe) rather than generic sealant.
• Tighten in stages following the factory sequence.
• Recheck fastener torque after a few heat cycles if the manual calls for it.

Looked after this way, the Gran Move’s exhaust gaskets usually last years, keeping the little MPV quiet, clean and happy on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions about 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move exhaust gaskets

Where are the exhaust gaskets on a 1997 Gran Move?
There’s an exhaust manifold gasket sandwiched between the cylinder head and the manifold, and typically a ring/donut gasket at the manifold-to-front pipe joint. Some cars may also have a flat gasket at a mid-pipe or cat flange, depending on build and replacement history.

These locations are accessible from the engine bay (manifold) and from underneath on a hoist or stands (front pipe). A torch will usually reveal the tell-tale flange shapes and, if leaking, dark soot traces.

What are the symptoms of a blown exhaust manifold gasket?
Expect a ticking or puffing sound that’s loudest on cold start, plus a sharp exhaust odour near the firewall. You might spot black soot at the leak and, in some cases, slightly lazier throttle response because the O2 sensor readings get skewed.

Left unchecked, leaks can erode studs and warp the mating faces, turning a simple gasket job into a bigger repair. It’s best to sort it early.

Can sealant be used instead of an exhaust gasket on a Gran Move?
No. The manifold-to-head joint needs the correct MLS or composite gasket, and the front pipe typically uses a formed donut/ring. High-temp sealants aren’t a substitute for these and can fail quickly or contaminate sensors.

If a flange is pitted, have it machined or replaced and fit the proper gasket. That way, the seal lasts and the engine management stays happy.