Abstract: An exhaust manifold is disclosed. The exhaust manifold includes a plurality of exhaust tubes connected to one another, such that a male connector portion of one exhaust tube is received into a female connector portion of an adjacent exhaust tube. The plurality of exhaust tubes define an exhaust passage therein. The exhaust manifold also includes an air shielding zone surrounding the plurality of exhaust tubes. The exhaust manifold further includes a cooling jacket. The cooling jacket surrounds the air shielding zone. A high temperature seal is disposed within the air shielding zone. The high temperature seal is positioned outside of an interface area of the male and female connector portions of the respective exhaust tubes. The high temperature seal is configured to separate the air shielding zone into regions. Also, the high temperature seal is configured to control fluid communication between the separated regions of the air shielding zone.