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Old 07-24-2017, 06:54 PM   #1
AL in NY
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Default Head gasket modification

Can anyone provide me with information on tricks for modifying the Model A copper head gasket for better sealing in the areas between cylinders 1&2 and 3&4. There was I post in a thread a few years ago showing this, but I can't seem to find it.
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Old 07-24-2017, 07:13 PM   #2
Ian in Mississauga
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Default Re: Head gasket modification

Do a search here on fordbarn for "head gasket reinforcement" by Tom Endy.
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Old 07-25-2017, 10:23 AM   #3
Jim Brierley
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Default Re: Head gasket modification

I would not modify the gasket but if you feel the need, just lay a piece of small copper wire in that area, .040" x 2" would be about right.
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Old 07-25-2017, 10:29 AM   #4
Marshall V. Daut
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Default Re: Head gasket modification

Another old hot rodder's trick is to take a sharp center punch and hammer and drive the tip of the tool into the metal between the cylinders, making numerous craters. This creates burrs with raised metal edges that "grab" the gasket material and prevent it from slipping, one of the reasons for gaskets blowing out in this area.
I have also had good luck spraying black gloss enamel or silver on the gasket. When the engine gets hot, it melts the paint and really makes the gasket stick to the block. Wipe any oozing excess from the sides of the engine before it sets.
There are other ways to help a gasket seal, but the best way is to ensure that the head and block are perfectly level, and that the metal does not have a mirror smooth finish. You want some serrations or waves in the metal to help grab the gasket material.
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Old 07-25-2017, 11:07 AM   #5
RawhideKid
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Default Re: Head gasket modification

Why not buy a gasket that fits the bore instead of a one size fits all?

"Best" gaskets makes multiple size gaskets to fit your bore, from stock to +.120 I believe. You can order them from Egge.com

I think it is very narrow minded for Felpro to just make a gasket that is made for the big bores, and narrow minded for the vendors to offer only 1 gasket.
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Old 07-25-2017, 10:57 PM   #6
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Default Re: Head gasket modification

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Quote:
Originally Posted by AL in NY View Post
Can anyone provide me with information on tricks for modifying the Model A copper head gasket for better sealing in the areas between cylinders 1&2 and 3&4. There was I post in a thread a few years ago showing this, but I can't seem to find it.
Hey Al,
As said, I would not modify the 'gasket' itself, unless you classify spraying copper coat on both sides, as modification. I guess it is on second thought.

Some good thoughts given already. If you have a lot of time/patience, I'll add this one thought more.....lap the head to the block for a perfect fit, then the gasket should do its' job well. Both gasket areas being perfectly mated/flat to each other is what should always be worked for.

I think that the problem of ill fitting gasket is also made worse when installing head/gasket on block.....and making sure that the gasket stays where it should !!
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Old 07-26-2017, 08:37 AM   #7
BILL WILLIAMSON
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Default Re: Head gasket modification

I was just "wondering" if a THIN smear of J.B. Weld would help?????
I HAVE used 2 part Resin, in the past & it held.
Bill W.
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Old 07-26-2017, 11:30 AM   #8
Jim Brierley
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Default Re: Head gasket modification

Like Marshall, I use silver paint, don't like copper coat as it never dries so does not act as a glue.
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Old 07-27-2017, 03:09 PM   #9
AL in NY
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Default Re: Head gasket modification

Thanks guys, that's just the thread I was looking for. Didn't search "head gasket reinforcement". I guess you need the right verbage to find what you want. Thanks again!!!!!!!!
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