Mike - that looks like a standard Model A 4.2:1 cylinder head to me.
When I replace a head gasket I try to make sure the sealing surfaces are clean and flat. Cleaning the block carefully with a carbide scraper is the best way. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove the crud you scrape off. Be careful around the valves that you don’t scratch them. I clean off the bulk with the valve closed, then rotate the engine so the valve is open and carefully clean close. I have some old dental scrapers I use for that. Don’t use whizzy wheel or sandpaper, you can gouge the surface. I also like to replace head studs with new, it makes cleaning the surface easier. Be careful, if the stud is stuck and you break it off you will have a whole bunch of additional troubles. If you elect to “chase” the holes use only a special retreading tap, not a conventional tap, and STOP when you get near the bottom of the hole so you don’t punch through into the water jacket.
On the head, same deal. Once you get it clean take a good straightedge and lay it every direction you can along and across the surface. Measure any gaps with feeler gauge, I use 0.002” as my trigger. Any gaps greater than 0.002” and you should have the head decked (resurfaced) by a machine shop. You might want to do this anyhow just so you know.
After you get your head back from decking, set it on the block with no gasket and rotate the engine by hand. Check that you don’t have any valve interference lifting the head up.
When you reinstall the head be careful that you set it down gently. If it slips you can bend an open valve. Don’t ask how I know that.
Torque sequence - check Les Andrews Red Book for the sequence. I start with a round at 25 ft-lb, then add 5 ft-lb in steps until i get to 55. Add coolant after you get to full torque. Run the engine until it reaches operating temp (with coolant, of course), checking for leaks, then let it sit overnight. Repeat a round of 55 ft-lb and then you’re ready to drive. Repeat the head torque at 50 miles, then 100, 500 and annually.
My way isn’t the only way, but it works for me. NK (above) has a lot of good suggestions as well. I’ve had the best luck with the Best 509G graphite gasket with copper spray sealant.
