baxsom

iTrader: (6)

I am getting ready to do a head and cam swap on my 00 LS1 C5. I have a set of 243 heads off of an 01 LS6 so it has the standard length solid valves. I am putting in a TSP 228R cam with PAC 1218 springs. My question is on the better headgasket. I am not doing anything to the heads other than cleaning them up and changing the valve seals. I am also getting the TSP head and cam gasket kit. They offer GM graphite or GM MLS head gaskets. To ensure a good seal which would be better? I have read that the graphite is better for compensating for any imperfections and I have also read that the MLS is better because of the exact same reason so which is correct?

Thanks

BlackScreaminMachine

iTrader: (17)

I would go with MLS as since at least the industry had done so. GM stopped using graphite on FBodies at the end of their run in 2002. IN your case you can't go wrong either way but if the heads come off at all, its far easier to clean up.

If your really unsure, ask TSP, I am sure they have an opinion.

NXZ28

iTrader: (45)

I used GM MLS gaskets with great results. I sprayed a 300hp shot on stock 241 using ARP studs and MLS gaskets with no issues ever. I even melted a valve once and the head gaskets looked perfect.

Randy WS6

iTrader: (69)

GM-MLS all the way, I use the MLS on my LS2 418cid. with a 350 shot and has been on the motor for six years now and never had any problems at all. I do spray them with copper sealant.And plus the graphite gaskets are a pain in the *** to clean off the heads & block.

Larry @ AMS

iTrader: (1)

I'm with everyone else here and say go MLS.

baxsom

iTrader: (6)

This just adds to the confusion. The service manual says "Do not use sealer on headgaskets." So since this is a service manual for an 00 which came originally with a graphite gasket, does this mean do not spray sealer on a graphite gasket??

BADD SS

iTrader: (4)

MLS/ End thread.... you dont need to spray anything on them, some do, not required. They'll seal fine as long as the head and block surface are clean, and not scratched.

bigboykilroy

iTrader: (48)

GM-MLS and be done with it.

Sales4@Texas-Speed

iTrader: (4)

I agree with everyone in the thread, GM MLS is what we use most of the time.

01ssreda4

iTrader: (96)

I have had extremely good luck with MLS also.

baxsom

iTrader: (6)

OK thanks everyone. I have read here and on other vette sites that the MLS requires perfectly smooth finishes and that the graphite is more forgiving and then then I have read that the graphite requires perfect finishes and the MLS is more forgiving. The heads are going to get taken to a shop to get smoothed out but the block will just get cleaned. Looks like the GM MLS is the correct one.