Can I re-use any of the old gaskets
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From: Tinker till it blows, then back it off a notch, maybe!!
Can I re-use any of the old gaskets I am wondering which gaskets , seals, etc., if any, can be re-used in re-assembling an LS1?
TIA
TIA
Originally Posted by oange ss
pretty much all can be reused as long as they pass a visual inspection, the only exception is the headgaskets ( graphite) and the oil pump tube o-ring
You can re-use the metal type gaskets such as the header/manifold gaskets, also the o-ring type gaskets such as the valve covers, and intake manifold. Head gaskets should be replaced along with the timing cover and front main seal. The water pump gaskets are metal, however for the price and the hassle, I would replace those.
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Originally Posted by oange ss
no I'm not,I can see why the post was misleading..disclaimer, I have no experience with MLS type gaskets,Cometic or factory, so I cant say for sure if they are in fact reusable
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If your spending that kind of money, I'd like to know a $10 gasket is not going to screw something up. 
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This is what I bought for my cam install:
Cam Install Gasket Kit, 1997-98 LS1
Price: $36.95
Part # KITSD51901
Brand: Scoggin Dickey Parts Center
QTY:
Description
1997-98 LS1 Cam Install Gasket Kit.
Save your headaches, use our gasket kits for a pain free installation of your new cam. Our gasket kits are complete with all GM gaskets, seals and bolts needed to complete the job, leak free.
Camshaft installation kits include valve cover gaskets, timing cover gasket, water pump gaskets, front cover gasket, front cover seal and a new balancer bolt.
Cant beat the price.
Cam Install Gasket Kit, 1997-98 LS1
Price: $36.95
Part # KITSD51901
Brand: Scoggin Dickey Parts Center
QTY:
Description
1997-98 LS1 Cam Install Gasket Kit.
Save your headaches, use our gasket kits for a pain free installation of your new cam. Our gasket kits are complete with all GM gaskets, seals and bolts needed to complete the job, leak free.
Camshaft installation kits include valve cover gaskets, timing cover gasket, water pump gaskets, front cover gasket, front cover seal and a new balancer bolt.
Cant beat the price.
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From: Tinker till it blows, then back it off a notch, maybe!!
On the other hand, I've seen an engine gasket set (complete with head gaskets and bolts,etc) for over $200
I will be using MLS gaskets and ARP hardware, so I don't want a full set of junk, and I was not sure in looking at, for instance, the oil pan, rear and front cover gaskets, whether they were re-usable or not, or if I should keep them in case they may be needed at another time.
I will be using MLS gaskets and ARP hardware, so I don't want a full set of junk, and I was not sure in looking at, for instance, the oil pan, rear and front cover gaskets, whether they were re-usable or not, or if I should keep them in case they may be needed at another time.
Gaskets aren't cheap. Especially if you buy a complete set. A good set of head gaskets alone can run you $100+. I would inspect each one and replace if necessary. I would replace the oil pan gaskets, rear cover gasket, and rear main seal for sure. Getting to them is such a bitch if they start leaking. Water pump gaskets usually start to leak early in life also. Header gaskets are reusable. Intake and valve cover gaskets last a long time as said. Again, just make sure they are good before reusing them.
Do NOT reuse the head, ex man gaskets. Do NOT reuse the timing cover crank seal. You might get away with reusing the water pump gasket and the timing cover gasket, but you should have replacements on hand in case you need them. Your time alone is worth more than the price of a gasket.
Launching!
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From: Viginia Beach, VA
Originally Posted by jrp
personally i wouldnt reuse any, whats a couple of bucks for new gaskets after you just spent money on a rebuild.
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From: Tinker till it blows, then back it off a notch, maybe!!
Wow
I didn't mean to start a debate, just wondering if any were re-usable if still in good shape.
I am getting to the end of the road and adding up the bills. Anything left over would go towards perks like maybe roller rockers or other items.
I always bought new gaskets for other engines, but this is my first LS1. In looking at some of the gaskets, it seems as though they could be re-used.
In my case everything except for head and water pump gaskets, look good. I guess I'll just go back to the GM shop manual and see what it says.
I didn't mean to start a debate, just wondering if any were re-usable if still in good shape.
I am getting to the end of the road and adding up the bills. Anything left over would go towards perks like maybe roller rockers or other items.
I always bought new gaskets for other engines, but this is my first LS1. In looking at some of the gaskets, it seems as though they could be re-used.
In my case everything except for head and water pump gaskets, look good. I guess I'll just go back to the GM shop manual and see what it says.
