tuckin22

So I know that this might sound like a dumb question. But what do you think about replacing head gaskets on a head swap that is less than a few hundred miles?

I don't have a problem getting new ones... they are cheap enough. but just curious what you alls thoughts are.

A.R. Shale Targa

iTrader: (2)

replace

JRENIGAR

iTrader: (37)

Replace them.

.boB

iTrader: (1)

Depends on what type of gasket you used initially. MLS gaskets, like Cometic, can often be used 2-3 times. Graphite GM or standard Fel-Pro Perma-A-Torque gaskets can only be used once.

mikesimpalass

Its not a dumb question. Ive kicked the idea around once. I torqued my heads down, then i took them back off to change the lifters without even running the engine. but i changed mine, its tempting to try and save a few bucks. But in the end its cheap insurance to replace them.

conan

iTrader: (5)

This ^^^

I've reused MLS gaskets before... No problems, this was with boost too.
As said above the graphite gaskets are one time use.

What gaskets are you running?

tuckin22

Hmmm interesting responses.. I am using GM performance MLS ones. I guess it would really be a case by case thing then.

racer8088

I have reused the oem gaskets a few times when we had to and just sprayed them down with copper coat but the rubber coating was still almost all there and they worked fine.

Just remember to get a gasket that is bigger than the bore AND the chamber if you are changing to a larger chambered head so the head gasket isn't sticking in the chamber.

Another words with a 6.0 head on a 5.7 you would want the 6.0 bore head gasket to replace the 5.7 you had as the old 5.7 head gasket might be in the combustion chamber of the 6.0 head you are changing to etc.

tuckin22

yeah I am changing to 799 heads from 317 heads... I think I am running 3.910 or 3.920 gaskets and have a 3.905 bore...

conan

iTrader: (5)

If you changing heads I would get some new gaskets. The head surface will be slightly different, between the 2. I used the same heads, on the same side with the same gasket when I reused my Cometics.