yeah, i'd do it. too many issues with the old reseal job. done it enough to remember the number-113 140 0701. good luck, chuck.

That's impressive!

Ok, I'm not going to question silicon over manifold gasket… as long as it holds.

But, what about the split between top and bottom? As far as I can tell there is a leak there, audible and visible via smoke, less than 6 months after the re-seal. Should I even attempt to do this again (or let the shop correct it)… or is this project doomed no matter what. I mean I don't want to do this every 6 months and hope it lasts longer.

Instead of RTV, try using Hylomar, it holds a bit better and doesnt slip out. I even use it on hosepipes with screwclamps.

__________________
2012 BMW X5 (Beef + Granite suspension model)

1995 E300D - The original humming machine (consumed by Flood 2017)
2000 E320 - The evolution (consumed by flood 2017)