Vortec 454 Donut Gasket ?

[#8trx450r]

I have a leaky LH exhaust manifold where the pipe and manifold meat, Recently when I took it in to be fixxed the shop told me it could be over a grand because they didn't use donut gaskets and that the Manifold AND pipe w/ CAT could have to both be replaced.

 

Having worked on my own stuff all my life but have steered clear of most exhaust work in my older age I declined and figured I'd pull it apart myself when the weather got warmer out. I am to the point where I am ready to bust it apart but thought I'd ask you guys if there was or wasn't a gasket at this joint and if others have had this issue and how thye took care of it.

 

 

 

Thanks, Corey