Snow Dog

iTrader: (3)

I am not happy with the 1041s that I've used. I have had to replace them once already. This second time I followed others instructions on here and coated the gaskets with copper spray. Yes, I did retorque the heads too. Yet, they are now leaking again. So I'm looking for an alternative because I no longer care to use these head gaskets. The benefits are not worth it. The car is an LS1 with AFR 225s. AFR says to use a gasket with at least a 4.130 bore size and recommended these. Does GM make an MLS gasket by chance that will work? All I am finding is max bore size of the block that a gasket will work for not the bore size of the gasket.

Oh and there is nothing wrong with the block. I just want a better head gasket this time around because I do not want to do this a fourth time.

Thanks

405HP_Z06

iTrader: (11)

Here you go, all of the head gaskets and specs that I know of for the LSx:

https://ls1tech.com/forums/10779441-post14.html

XtraCajunSS

iTrader: (2)

Its strange that you've had a problem with those gaskets. We've used them for years without problems on N/A builds. We normally use GM MLS gaskets and I have used LS7 gaskets without problems. I also have a set of the Cometic 4.130 X .051" thick gaskets in stock. Let me know if you need anything.

Thanks,
Shane

ls2 bait

iTrader: (11)

may want to double check the deck of the heads. thats what im doing this time around. im on my 3rd set of head gaskets. already pushed water on the ls2 3 layer, cometics, and ls3 5 layer. im going to switch to fel pro this time.

405HP_Z06

iTrader: (11)

Inspect the corners and edges of the heads. Heads are generally handled and stored on the ends, standing up to protect the deck surface. The problem occurs when they are put down on a hard surface. The corners are easily impacted causing a high spot that doesn't allow the head to seat flat on the block deck.

The last thing I inspect before I put a pair of heads on a car are the corners and edges of the deck surface. I take a machinist straight edge and place it on the deck surface extending over the edge of the deck. I then shine a flash light behind it and look for high spots. You would be surprised what you find. To remove the high spots, I use a small micro file.

the_merv

iTrader: (88)

I'm using the 1041's without a problem with my build, then again I'm an Iron Block and just N/A, so that may make a difference. I've always had good luck with the Felpros on Iron Blocks.

Snow Dog

iTrader: (3)

Thanks for the replies everyone. I've used Felpro in the past on many other builds(non LSX) in many different applications and haven't had any issues either. With LSXs I have only used GM gaskets because they are so good in their respective locations. This is the first Felpro gasket I've used on an LSx and I'm not impressed. I'd rather go with the tried and true MLS gaskets as they will work just fine for me in this build.

I found these GMPP gaskets but it only states they will work up to a 4.100 bore. Obviously, this is enough for the LS1's 3.9 bore but is the gasket itself a 4.130 bore? If it's 4.120, I'm sure that'll work too. GMPP# 19170418

http://www.karlperformanceparts.com/...?idproduct=576

405HP_Z06

iTrader: (11)

19170418 has 4.100" gasket bore diameter

Snow Dog

iTrader: (3)

the info I'm finding says it's for engine bores up to 4.100" so I would think the gasket's bore should be a slightly larger. No? For instance, the MLS gasket for LS1s is a little over 3.900 but the engine bore is only 3.900"

405HP_Z06

iTrader: (11)

on this GM gasket, the gasket bore diameter is 4.100". If you need a 4.135" bore, TR has them in Cometic. See the post above.

Snow Dog

iTrader: (3)

ok thanks for clarifying that for me.

Squeezer

If you feel that you need a MLS head gasket, then why not use the FelPro #1161L & 1161R MLS PermaTorque head gaskets?
Gasket Bore Thickness Gasket Voume
4.100" .053" 11.5 cc

They are also available in 3.945 and 4.175 bore.

Mean Green z28

iTrader: (17)

ugh, I just installed 1041's today 'cos that's the only one that'll work with my 853 heads and LQ9 block combo. BTW, thanks for the info Aaron

the_merv

iTrader: (88)

Just cause that guy had problems doesn't mean you will..mine have been working very well, I've had good luck with the Felpro 1041's.

ls2 bait

iTrader: (11)

whats the diff between the 1041 and 1161?

405HP_Z06

iTrader: (11)

The 1041 is a composite gasket and the 1161 is a MLS gasket. The Fel-Pro MLS gaskets are the best MLS gasket on the market.

Snow Dog

iTrader: (3)

thought I'd update this as I have just received new information.

I let the leak go for a little while as this time around it was very minor. Honestly, I had my fingers crossed that it would fix itself. no dice.

Called AFR today and spoke with their guy there. What I did not realize as this is the first time I have used AFRs is the 225 comes in two different configurations, small bore and large bore. I have part number 1660 heads which are the small bore heads. The small bore 225s use a 205 chamber and are designed to be used with 3.900 bore head gaskets not 4.130 like the AFR directions say. So I'll be switching back to GM MLS as I don't care about the extra thickness. This is just a fun car.

Thanks everyone. Hopefully this will help someone else in the future