Can you reuse cometic gaskets?

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Oct 20, 2005 | 01:13 PM

eb02z06

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From: Waterloo, Ontario

Can you reuse cometic gaskets?

I'm pulling off my AFR's this weekend to flycut my pistons. I have the cometics on there right now-can I re-use them? If i can is it a good idea to use some of that copper spray sealant on them? If so how much and should i wait until they dry or install them right away? Thanks alot guys!

Oct 20, 2005 | 01:19 PM

LS1 BU

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From: South Elgin

I have reused mine 3 times. No problems ever. I didn't use and sealent. Just be real careful with them. If the layers get misaligned they will not seal.

Oct 20, 2005 | 01:28 PM

Tony Mamo @ AFR

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Quote:

Originally Posted by LS1 BU

I have reused mine 3 times. No problems ever. I didn't use and sealent. Just be real careful with them. If the layers get misaligned they will not seal.

Exactly....

No need to spray copper sealant and I doubt that would help in the event there was an issue with the gasket anyway. Just remove and inspect it carefully and make sure that the dark top layer of the gasket (the sealing surface) is all intact when you remove it. It usually is in a low mileage situation like yours. If in doubt though, spring for a new pair for obvious reasons....huge PITA to re-do it all.

Good luck...

Oct 20, 2005 | 10:16 PM

ArcticZ28

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From: Alexandria, VA

I say use a light coat of copper spray gasket on each one and make absolutely sure that each mating surface is completely clean or they will have problems sealing. Many people have reused cometics with a light layer of sealant each time. Why run them dry and risk having them leak when you can have added insurance with copper spray gasket, it doesn't hurt them.