Head Gasket and head studs for a 972cc

[Oz singer]

In need of advice here !

What kind of head gasket would be the best for a 972cc ? A new old stock ? A copper one ?
I will bump a bit the comp ratio on my engine , but no more than 8 to 1 as I don't trust the head stud treads in the block.

Talking about head studs, where do you can buy new one ? And quality gaskets ??

A always , many thanks in advance.

[jeans_old_man]

I used to make my own out of solid copper. The advantage is that you can choose the thickness - either to increase the compression or to match the height of the front cover. I used to anneal them on the coal fire but we haven't had one of those for years.

I tried one recently but was unable to anneal it properly and couldn't get it to seal (bubbles fizzing out the side when running). I managed to get a composite one (what used to be copper/asbestos) and that is performing well even after swapping the head a couple of times.

I think Hardwick's can supply composite ones but don't use anything without copper around the combustion chamber- it will just burn away. Don't use any sealant because that will stop you reusing the gasket. Make sure all the studs that penetrate into the water jacket are sealed. That includes the camshaft bearing studs and the rocker cover studs - I use loctite. Don't over tighten the head studs. The top of the block is very thin but re tighten them after half an hours running when the gasket will have settled and then again after a few hundred miles.

[telco.2]

Hardwicks do head studs too - I've been using them for years with no problems

[Oz singer]

Thanks guys !

I know in Australia where to but some NOS gaskets, I will give them a go.
Hardwicks is selling them ?? How did I missed that !!

[Phillip]

We have solid copper gasket sets in stock including the head gasket, exhaust manifold gasket, and exhaust flange gasket for $150.00CAD, plus postage.

PM me if you are interested...