Head Gasket

[Simonpfhc]

Hi all,

Just wanted to double check that my thought process is not flawed with regards to my choice of head gasket.

As part of the head gasket kit that I have, there is of course the standard, steel head gasket. There is the endless discussion around whether to install this type of gasket dry or with a sealant. However, I have also ordered a modern type, composite head gasket. This is preferred and is a much thicker gasket at 1.8mm, but I have had the head skimmed. The skim will only be minimal, so this will result in a very slightly reduced compression ratio. Shouldn't really be a problem - I am running 9:1 pistons. However, I have heard of the possible issue of the timing chains not being quite long enough to attach the cam sprockets with a thicker head gasket.

Any comments or gothcha's appreciated.

Cheers.

[mooney1el]

I just installed the head on my 3.8 FHC engine. The head and block were slightly "skim" cut (<.010" ea) , new timing chains and had no issues using a .059" Cometic composite head gasket. Spoke with the manufacturer and there is no "this side up" marking or requirement and they recommend factory torque values. No extra sealant recommended and in fact discouraged. The gasket has a very thin (.001-.002") layer of Viton impregnated into the surfaces and any other sealer may adversely effect this layer

Richard Gray
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

[Simonpfhc]

Thanks For your reply Richard. My composite gasket is 70thou so only about 10thou thicker than yours. Good to hear you had no timing chain fitting issues ;-)

I am going ahead with the composite. Will report back with the results.....

Cheers.