EDIT: it was actually cylinder number 1...
When I pulled the intake the gasket for the #1 intake runner was already in this shape, but #3 let go rather quickly with a clean break as well. I used white lithium grease so nothing "stuck" to the manifold or the heads for that matter. Not sure what gives on all this. The gaskets were installed about 6 and a half years ago and nothing has been touched since then.
I installed new gaskets last night and will be on the road first thing tomorrow morning headed to the Clermont County Fairgrounds in Owensville, Ohio. I plan to stay until about 5 pm or so - look me up if any of you can make it.
I had to register late - so I am car #2363, yep - that many cars at the show.
Daniel JessupLancaster, California
aka "The Hot Rod Reverend"
check out the 1955 Ford Fairlane build at www.hotrodreverend.com