Head gasket thickness?

Hi Bob, I have no problem answering your questions and you have a lot of talented people up here, but I don't know of any "special" machine work!

Also, you mention "Victor" gaskets, I'm not sure if these are just reboxed Fel-Pro's or not, but I have never done anything "special" and have used the Fel-Pro's for years now, not a single issue! A "smoother" machining finish does help seal better! I have 3 mills I can choose to use, one is a "wet" grinder, one is a CNC (Hass), and the other is a "Storm-Vulcan".

Like I stated earlier, I do prefer studs over bolts, better clamping force. Less "wear & tear" on the head bolt holes.

Ron is also correct above, the "Hi-Tack" works as well as the copper/adhesive spray!

With respect to the torque values, we use what the vendor (ARP) recommends, they make the fasteners and pretty much "call the shots"?

Most "studded" aluminum heads get 70# with oil. We use the 7/16" studs from ARP rated at 190,000#. We set them in the block with some "Permatex #1", hard-setting! Each head gets torqued up in three steps, 25#, 45#, and 70# final! I have run a few of these with 65# and still had no problems!

If we choose to use head bolts over studs, we use the same "Permatex" on the bolt threads with a "touch" of "Lubriplate" under the bolt heads!

(Add) I would add this here, we try to pay special attention to not let any excess oil to penetrate the head gaskets during ***'y. We use the oil sparingly on the studs, washers, and nuts. Just enough to lubricate and NOT "soak"!! We don't allow it to "run" down the studs while assembling the unit!

Thanks, Gary in N.Y.

P.S. We've not a single issue with gaskets sealing using the methods I've listed here! We do get to use ALL brands of gaskets also!
 

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JWL said:
The 8BA style engine uses a left and right gasket. The 1055 and 1056 are left and right.

I have no idea what the "special" machine work is? There has only been several hundred used without "special" machine work. It is possible the reference is there to be sure the surface finish texture is very smooth.
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Okay, I think we can put the misinformation I had to rest. I now know I can put the 1055/56 gaskets on with nothing more than a good sealer. Thanks for the clarification. Bob
 
I appreciate the info on head gasket choices and installation tips.
If possible, could you guys who have "been there/done that" clarify the sealers and sprays and which type gaskets are used with each type. Brand names and part numbers-if possible. Many thanks to each one of you. jack orchard
 
The best was aluminum paint, but they don't make it any more. Personally, I don't think it makes much difference. They ALL will leak if the surfaces are not prepared properly.
 
For what it's worth, I personally believe that as long as the compression is not ungodly high and the deck and heads are true, 99% of head gasket failure is due to improper prep work and the other 1% is due to a faulty gasket. Am I wrong on this?
 
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