Metal type head gaskets

mk3zephyr, Feb 3, 7:07am
Got a couple of these in a gasket set i bought for my SBC, Are they any good!, do they need any compound to be put on them before the head goes on!, also one side has raised bits/ridges, do they face out towards the head or towards the block, hasnt got any markings like conventional gaskets do

intrade, Feb 3, 9:43am
picture myght help huh
www.imageshack.us

hijacka, Feb 3, 11:54am
Multi layered steel gaskets(MLS) can also be re-used aswell. but as above check thickness against the factory one.
You can use a special copper spray to help with heat transfer, personally i've never used it but have heard good stories from those that have.

hijacka, Feb 3, 12:24pm
And yes the raised ridges face towards the head,

mk3zephyr, Feb 3, 12:50pm
rodga that, never used one so was unsure, was also told not to use any sealant etc as well, cool thanks

hijacka, Feb 3, 1:37pm
No probs zeph, I usually just settle for a graphite one because im a cheap arse haha.If the factory one is alittle thicker than the MLS one(which it usually is) then lay the steel gasket on the block and bring the piston up to TDC and check the protrusion. Prob no that already but yeah goodluck with it anyway

pfemstn, Feb 3, 1:52pm
im a Ford Mechanic from the Zephyr erathe single layer embossed steel gasket can only be ever used ONCE. make sure its a genuine Ford oneA local manufacturer tried to make them at one stagebut they were duds{to soft]. head and block surfaces must be in excellent condition

pfemstn, Feb 3, 1:55pm
oops i see they are not for a Ford at all but some other make. still the comment about using them once still applies

hijacka, Feb 3, 2:13pm
http://www.enginebuildermag.com/Article/1260/engine_sealing_high_performance_head_gaskets.aspx

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-many racers find they can reuse MLS gaskets with no problems. And if the surface coating has a damaged spot or two, it can often be repaired with a light coating of RTV silicone.
-MLS gaskets don't have to be replaced every time the head comes off the engine.
I've personally have re-used mls gaskets without issue in the passed and not so long ago re-used one on a B16A.
Strange that you say they can't!

pfemstn, Feb 3, 3:46pm
ah!but is he talking abut multilayer gasaketsIm talking about pressed steel single layer gaskets like Rover v8 And Ford Zephyr!

mk3zephyr, Mar 6, 6:43pm
yea its just one of those single layer jobs, thoughjt i would try some out, if they are rubbish i'll bung another set of normals on