Dumb gasket question.

Im getting ready to replace my muffler on my 2002 Tacoma. I also have a donut gasket that goes between the converter and the muffler in a bolted flange. The round gasket is solid metal on one side and dark asbestos looking material on the other side.
Does it make any difference at all which direction this gasket is installed in the bolted flange ?
Thanks

 

Did some more research since I posted this question and the info I have thus far says to put the shiny side of the gasket toward the muffler downside direction and that the asbestos looking side is toward the engine to help take the direct heat ???

 

I just removed the original and that gasket looks to be the same on both sides.
As I mentioned above, my new gasket has a asbestos type looking material on one side and not sure if it matters the installed direction.
Here is a picture of both sides of new gasket. Hard to see the difference but I need a better camera I guess.
Thanks

 

Hmm that's interesting, I just changed that gasket no long ago and mine was like your original, except the middle sections of whatever that material is was green.

 

http://www.lceperformance.com/Round-Collector-Exhaust-Gasket-Used-For-2-Bolt-x-2-p/1044027.htm

 

Oh no !
I hope I dont have to order a different one. My new gasket is Bosal 256-287.
I will check to make sure I ordered the right one.
Thanks

 

Well the new gasket I have does match to fit my vehicle but because I bought a Bosal gasket rather than a FelPro then the design will be different.
I know the Bosal gasket will compress some when tightened but it doesnt look as good as the one Speedytech7 showed and I just now ordered one like that Fel-Pro 60911.
I will have to wait to have both in hand and then choose.
Thanks

 

you're overthinking it. As long as it fits that gasket will be fine in either direction.

 

Well thanks for all the help.
I felt more comfortable with the Fel Pro gasket.
Definitely more surface area.
Pictured is old original(Left), new Fel-Pro, and the the Bosal gasket.

 

Then left the Bosal, Fel-Pro, and then old original.

 

Its together and happy thus far.
Thanks again for all the help.