Head gaskets

David Murray · Post by **David Murray** » Tue Feb 07, 17 9:49 am

Any recommendations on head gaskets for use with (Edelbrock RPM) aluminium heads on a 440 block? The research I've done so far is pointing towards Cometic MLS ones. I was surprised at the prices, but if that's what is needed then so be it.

MilesnMiles · Post by **MilesnMiles** » Tue Feb 07, 17 11:49 am

I used regular Fel Pro Blues on my 340 with aftermarket heads. My compression is only 9.7.1 No issues yet.

Blue · Post by **Blue** » Tue Feb 07, 17 12:36 pm

The thing you need to look at with the big block heads is that the fire ring doesn't overlap the chamber, that's the biggest problem whatever the brand. Can't remember what I used, it did clear but it was very close. Don't see the need for Cometics unless it's a high compression race engine, I would look at Fel pro.

GTXJim · Post by **GTXJim** » Tue Feb 07, 17 5:01 pm

I have used Fel-Pro many times without an issue, once used some from 440 source and had head gasket failure, also used the Cosmetic ones when I wanted to up the compression, and they worked great.

Mick70RR · Post by **Mick70RR** » Tue Feb 07, 17 7:35 pm

I use these with Stealth heads.

https://www.summitracing.com/int/parts/ ... /overview/

Some people advise against steel shim gaskets with aluminium heads but they've been on the engine for years and done thousands of miles.
Best to coat them first, I used spray on Hylomar.

Pete · Post by **Pete** » Tue Feb 07, 17 7:58 pm

I would happily use Felpro, and perform the checks first that Blue outlined.

David Murray · Post by **David Murray** » Tue Feb 07, 17 8:27 pm

Thanks for the replies, some good info...much appreciated. This is for a 512 stroker build, aiming for around 10:1 CR for street use, so nothing too mental. Just that this will by my first experience with ally heads and I've heard of people having issues caused by the differing expansion rates of the ally and iron.