Race Motor Head Gasket Recommendation

[dsmtuna]

Hey guys i am building a race motor and was gonna put in forged pistons with forged rods and arp head studs then was going to put new rings on it and was wonder what the best headgasket was to use in a high pressure race situation? thanks

 

[92AWDHX40]

, http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/newbie-forum/287148-going-runing-20-psi-head-gasket.htm

this should help you get started.

 

[VTEC_THIS]

Just a heads up, the above link doesn't work, I think you forgot the "l" in html.

This link should work:
http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/newbie-forum/287148-going-runing-20-psi-head-gasket.html

OP, I would go with a MLS (multi layer steel) headgasket like Cometic:
http://www.extremepsi.com/store/home.php?cat=553

The only issue with MLS headgaskets is that both mating surfaces (block and head) have to be perfectly flat or else you run the risk of the headgasket not sealing properly. That shouldn't be a problem for you since you're having the block machined and built anyway, just mention to your engine builder that you're planning on using a MLS headgasket. You'll probably want to bring in your head as well to have it inspected and milled if needed. You can also check the surface yourself with a straight edge.

MLS headgaskets are best for high boost applications, the composite headgaskets with ARPs typically won't hold more then 30psi.

 

[92AWDHX40]

Thanks.

 

[LiquidX]

Your "race" motor and "high pressure" situations is debateable on many factors. What are your actual goals?

In order to have the proper RA number for both the head and block it needs milled. If you can catch a finger nail on the surface it's not adequate enough for "proper" sealing. Basically it needs to shine like a mirror. If you do go with a MLS I recommend either the OEM MLS or the Fel-Pro Perma-torque head gaskets. I've heard way too many failures with the Cometic gasket, but then again, most people don't properly surface the mating surfaces.

The OEM composite has held 30 psi with ARP head studs and with an o-rings block and L19 studs, Paul Volk has pushed 40psi on his compound setup. Take it for what it's worth, they both will hold up.

 

[keltalon]

Hey guys i am building a race motor and was gonna put in forged pistons with forged rods and arp head studs then was going to put new rings on it and was wonder what the best headgasket was to use in a high pressure race situation? thanks

I have used several over the years and the best IMO and the one i have used with great success is the hks stopper 1.2mm.

 

[kthackst]

If you use cometic copper spray is your friend. Comparing OEM, FEL-PRO Permatorque, and cometic with first hand experience; I would rate cometic last and felpro permatorque first.

Cometic requires PERFECT SURFACES. But does work when RA requirements are met.
Felpro has a nice sticky "glue/compound" on it to help seal.
OEM has a nice rubbery outline around the edges of the gasket. I personally use OEM for this reason.

I recommend Felpro permatorque over OEM because of the crazy applications I have seem it in.