changing head gasket

[gsxin]

heads ready to come off. just wanted some pointers like do I need some kind of sealent or doI just slap on the new gasket and bolt her back on. what kind of damage should I be looking for. is it pretty self explanitory. Ive got a hayns manuel so I know some things but the book just isnt very detailed. oh yeah how about torque specs anything would be helpful
thanks in advance

 

[dnhieu]

scrap off all the old head gasket off the head and block. check to see if the head or block is warped(get machine work done if needed). i wouldnt use a multilayer head gasket because of this thread http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1372936#post1372936. and the book says to torque the head down diffrently but some people do between 85-105 and idle the car for a little while then torque it again.

 

[Sean485]

Most people have good luck with the normal composite HG, including myself, but I would get some copper gasket spray to use on the HG to make sure it seals good, especially if you decide to use the multi layer HG instead of the normal composite one

 

[babell2]

ARP head studs spec 80 Ft lbs torque with lube and torque in three steps. Factory head bolts are less but I don't have the exact number. You should use a good straight edge to check the head and block for warpage. Use the copper spray it also helps keep the gasket in place when assembling everything. If you are looking at installing the head with exhaust manifold on it (especilly if you have upgraded to a 2nd gen) you will need to grind cut or modify the engine mount bracket that has the 2 studs next to the power stearing pump to allow the left (Car left) ear of the manifold clear the mount. Been there done that

 

[ArticNemesis]

If you are using the OEM composite gasket, DO NOT USE COPPER SPRAY. It is for Metal headgaskets only. Clean the deck of the block and head surfaces, and torque that bad boy down. Use ARP headstuds if you don't/aren't alreayd using them.

 

[Sean485]

You can use the copper spray on the composite HG, plenty of people do. Its designed to help high pressure, high temperature gaskets seal perfectly. The HG fits both of those requirements and it says on the can "perfect for use on all types of head gaskets". Its just like adding a thin layer of rtv on any other gasket, it "shouldn't" be needed, but its added peace of mind considering how much of a pita it is to have to pull the head off on these cars...