Best head gasket

[Carls_jeep]

In a conversation with Calvin he said there is only one brand head gasket that won't leak and suggested I ask BobW which one it is.

So, BobW, which brand is it?

[calvinhunt]

Hey Carl,
I've returned home since we last communicated. �I have found my notes. �Should have remembered anyway since it was such a big issue. �The head gasket you want is a Victor. �Not a Victor look-alike, either. �Most available is a Fel-Pro, which has felt on only one side and will not work with or without the special adhesive spray some say to use. There is an aftermarket gasket that looks like a Victor until you put them side by side. Then you can see the difference. �I checked my receipts (I've kept every one since the beginning). �I purchased my Victor cylinder head gasket, part number: 1023K, vender: VI, price: $15.90 from Northern Auto Parts, 801 Lewis Blvd, Sioux City IA, 51105. Phone No: 800-831-0884. �Purchase was made on 4/22/2010. �I hope they still carry it. �

I remember that I had to call several sources to find a Victor. �Most have only Fel-Pro or an aftermarket gasket. Finally I found the source above.

There are some responses in the old forum under Tech Talk. �A search for "head gasket" will bring them up.

I would still like to hear what BobW has to say, but I now remember it was Doug that steered me to the Victor, possible BobW as well. �

Other members, please respond with your feelings / experiences with head gaskets. �Thanks.

[Bob W]

I like the brand name gaskets that are fiber on both sides. The no-name gaskets don't seem to fit as well. Seems like the new Fel-Pro gaskets have metal on one side and I find it is more difficult to get a good seal with the metal faced gaskets.

[Carls_jeep]

Hi Calvin, glad to see you home and back on the site. Thanks for the info.

I'll look for the double sided fiber gasket.

Bob W, in the fifties when I worked at my uncles shop we used aluminum spray paint real thick on each side of the fiber head gaskets to help seal them. Have you ever done that?

[Bob W]

I have very good results with Copper-Coat gasket spray.

[Carls_jeep]

Copper-Coat, yes, I have used that too. I will get some along with a Victor gasket.

[calvinhunt]

I was told by more than one person to install the Victor head gasket, with felt on both sides, completely dry--free of any spray or adhesive.  I put just over 1,000 miles on that engine last summer.  Still no leaks.  

[Carls_jeep]

It's probably time to retorque the head Calvin. Starting with the bolt pattern loosen each bolt/nut and torque to spec. one at a time.

[jamesr]

Im still waiting for my crank and engine block to come out of the crankshaft shop, after the rear neoprene seal spun.  I suggest that all use rope rear seals.  Jim

[Carls_jeep]

I have to totally agree with that jamesr. The reason I feel that way is no one can be certain that the block and crank are original to each other. The rope seal would work on any combination of crank and block. AND, if you read all the posts about the seal issue would be VERY leary about using the rubber seal.

My rear seal seeps a little but so little it is ridiculous to think about replacing it. As long as it drips out the bottom and doesn't get on the clutch plate it won't hurt anything. I don't know what type is in there now but if I ever replace it I will use a rope seal.