i was just wondering if a new head gasket required a break-in? i just changed to alluminium heads and almost have it back together. just wanted to ask before i start it. -jon

 

No, start it and run it.

 

Actually, thats not entirely true, especially when you mix metals (ie. iron block, aluminum heads)

Some head gaskets require retorquing after they have been run for awhile, some do not. It should say on the package the gaskets came in if they need to be retorqued. If you have the kind that do need to be retorqued, they can start to leak if you don't do it... that already happened to me once before.

 

happened to me too..... although i have hooker 2210 and its really inconnvenient to retorque the head bolts.. ie removing the rockers and headers to get to some of the bolts

 

The kind that don't require retorquing will leak if you retorque them. The kind that do require retorquing will leak pretty much regardless of whether you retorque them or not.

 

ok. thanks guys. i didn't think they needed broken in but it never hurts to ask.

 

They don't need a break in.. just start the engine and run it like normal. Just make sure you know if the gaskets you have require retorquing or not, and do as necessary.

 

ok, will do, thank you

 

You might check with the manufacturer. I`ve used both over the years, some required re-torquing according to the manufacturer and some did not.