is there any kind of goop or anything that i need to use when installing a head gasket?... never done this before, just want to make shure im doing it right...

jon

 

ok, i think i answered this one on my own... no... if im wrong correct me quickly because im about to put the head on...

http://www.diynet.com/diy/en_engine_...276387,00.html

 

your good man......handle it.

 

Most composite (as opposed to steel shim) gaskets require no additional sealers during installation. In fact, you risk premature gasket failure if you do use sealer or other type of coating on a composite gasket. The gaskets used on a bi-metal (aluminum head to cast iron block) engines have to accomodate the differences in thermal expansion between the materials. This is usually done with a teflon coating which allows the slightest amount of 'slip' between the head and block surfaces without actually breaking any seal. A gasket sealer applied to a gasket in this situation will prevent the slip from happening, and cause the gasket to be literally torn apart over time, causing a leak.

Make sure both surfaces are absolutely clean, and follow the torquing specs and sequence to the letter.

 

Remove all the former gasket material, be sure it's nice and smooth, and put the new gasket on. Do not apply any type of sealant. Slap the head on, re-assemble everything, and you'll be fine.