javier1730

iTrader: (16)

Like the tittle says, im putting back my heads And ill be using conetic multi layer gaskets, my question is should i use, copper spray or istall them dry?

Gunslinger09

I don't think it is neccessary but it can't hurt.

pHEnomIC

iTrader: (14)

Pretty sure you are supposed to install head gaskets dry. Also they can not be reused.

mark21742

As long as the gaskets have the blackish coating on them you don't need the copper spray, but like said above it wouldn't hurt to put them on dry as most people do

MrElectric03

iTrader: (71)

I always use a light coat just in case

javier1730

iTrader: (16)

thanks for the info guys...if it cant hurt i guess ill just spray a light coat on them. thanks again

vettenuts

iTrader: (4)

I prefer the Hylomar to the copper spray.

5w20

iTrader: (21)

it isn't necessary to use copper spray

slt200mph

iTrader: (42)

Cometic head gaskets do not need to be sprayed with anything. Just make sure the heads surface and the deck of the block are squeeky clean and torque them correctly and you will be fine.

-Joseph-

iTrader: (12)

I install them dry on brand spanking new engine builds all the time with no issues at all. Usually the surface finish on what I'm working on is 13RA, which is within the range of what is necessary for a MLS gasket to seal (<50RA). Not all engines or heads are machined that good. I will check a random stock engine to compare, but they do vary a bit visually.

Now with used components, I go about things a bit differently. On an "unmachined" deck or cylinder head surface (such as a cylinder head install) that I may question the sealing ability, I have used copper spray with great success. I have used hylomar also. Both work to seal the cooling system from dripping externally if there is a machining discrepancy.

Things that have worked for me in the past for cleaning both cylinder heads and the deck surface:

The stock MLS gaskets are cake to clean, the OEM graphite are a PITA. Clean off as much gasket material as possible with a scraper or by CAREFULLY using a razor blade. Then use a gasket removal spray to remove the last bits. Let the chemical soak then wipe the material off using rubber gloves and paper shop rags. Clean with brake/carb cleaner several times. If there is some graphite material left that cannot be removed, you can use some scotchbrite soaked in WD40 or cleaning solvent to polish that off.

Clean head bolt holes last, as gasket debris will fall in the threads along with engine coolant/oil. I recommend the ARP thread chasers, they work great. Remember to thoroughly clean the head bolt holes and keep them clean of debris and fluids before installing the heads.

912-0001 M8 x 1.25 Small head bolts
912-0011 M11 x 2.0 Large head bolts

mojoman469

Ok guys, depending on what type of head gasket, compression, engine block etc will determine whether or not you have to spray your head gasket with sealant. Like previously stated, if you have squared your deck and heads, your chances of a good seal greatly increase. However, some blocks regardless of the quality of the gasket still require this spray due to the porosity of the metals they are made of. You will never hurt a gasket by spraying it with copper spray. It will guarantee a proper seal every time unless you improperly torque your heads down, which will cause your gasket to warp and never seal no matter how much copper you spray on it.

DON'T CHANCE IT!

Spray an even coat across both sides of the gasket.
Don't spray the block.

I'm running a 415 sbc stroker 750hp+150 shot of nos.

Russ K

iTrader: (1)

Same here.

Russ Kemp

JakeFusion

iTrader: (7)

I used Copper spray on my Cometics. If I had a machined block, I would have installed dry.