Abstract: Disclosed is a process and apparatus for assemblying spiral wound gaskets into gauge rings. The process comprises exerting inwardly directed radial forces on the exterior of the spiral wound gasket, causing it to decrease in diameter sufficiently to slip into the gauge ring. The apparatus comprises a holder having a tapered opening and a mandrel which is adapted to engage the periphery of the gasket. As the mandrel with the gasket in place is pushed downwardly through the tapered opening, the mandrel's diameter is decreased and consequently the outer diameter of the spiral gasket is decreased. Means is provided to hold the gauge ring in position immediately adjacent the minor diameter end of the tapered opening in the holder, whereby as the mandrel pushes the gasket out of the minor diameter end it is immediately placed in the hole in the gauge ring where the forces are then released. The gasket is then free to expand outwardly to a tight fit into the gauge ring.