Gasket sealer on a metal headgasket...do I?
05-25-2016, 10:14 PM
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Gasket sealer on a metal headgasket...do I?
The Helms manual I have says to use a gasket sealer on a metal head gasket. I'm going to be using the GM 0.028" metal head gasket, should I use any sealer, possibly blue RTV or Indian head Gasket shellac?
05-25-2016, 10:25 PM
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Re: Gasket sealer on a metal headgasket...do I?
05-26-2016, 12:12 AM
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Re: Gasket sealer on a metal headgasket...do I?
I have a service manual in the garage I can look at and see if they specify one somewhere if you'd like, probably tomorrow as I'm heading off for the night.
05-26-2016, 04:51 AM
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Re: Gasket sealer on a metal headgasket...do I?
hey hey mikeyt know of any chill cruise nights in the Norfolk/Virginia beach area?
05-26-2016, 06:37 AM
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Re: Gasket sealer on a metal headgasket...do I?
WHATEVER the best thing is, it is NOT Indian Head shellac.
.028" should be a composition gasket.
Metal (steel shim) gaskets are usually more like about .016" thick, and are basically guaranteed to leak. See all the comments about Indian Head shellac to get a feel for why: they are simply OBSOLETE. Can be fine for a pure race-only car, where "longevity" isn't an issue; pretty much CERTAIN to fail in a street car, especially without very careful prep. Usual treatment for them in such circumstances is spray copper stuff.
.028" should be a composition gasket.
Metal (steel shim) gaskets are usually more like about .016" thick, and are basically guaranteed to leak. See all the comments about Indian Head shellac to get a feel for why: they are simply OBSOLETE. Can be fine for a pure race-only car, where "longevity" isn't an issue; pretty much CERTAIN to fail in a street car, especially without very careful prep. Usual treatment for them in such circumstances is spray copper stuff.
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05-26-2016, 07:11 AM
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Re: Gasket sealer on a metal headgasket...do I?
I use MLS gaskets in my engine. I just spray them with copper coat.
05-26-2016, 02:08 PM
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05-26-2016, 02:30 PM
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Re: Gasket sealer on a metal headgasket...do I?
I went with metal .015's and copper spray coated them - just as insurance .
05-27-2016, 02:51 AM
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Re: Gasket sealer on a metal headgasket...do I?
From all that you guys have showed me, the Indian head will not be used. I just read the same thing you posted in the manual...that's too funny
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