Hi guys, I'm sure somone here can help with this question. If I were to use a Milodon Copper head gasket (.060 thick) Does the block have to be O-Ringed? I have heard conflicting opinions so I figured the T/C guys have never steered me wrong! Much thanks in advance. Regards, Pat

Originally posted by Pat_McNeil:
Hi guys, I'm sure somone here can help with this question. If I were to use a Milodon Copper head gasket (.060 thick) Does the block have to be O-Ringed? I have heard conflicting opinions so I figured the T/C guys have never steered me wrong! Much thanks in advance. Regards, Pat =
My preference would be to use an "O" ring & the ones I do I use an "O" ring with a receiver groove but this is just my preference & not a real necessity.
Copper gaskets are not noted for sealing real well if you lean on them without "O" rings as there is no high pressure seal around the cylinders like a FelPro or a steel shim has.
They are an excellent choice for something you are pulling the heads off between rounds though :D
Plus they can be a bit of a challenge to seal assuming you are using a coolant.

Why do you feel it necessary to use a copper gasket?

Hey Mike! I needed a thick gasket due to the pistons sticking .018 out of the block. The thick gasket will give me more clearance than the .051" Felpro. I thought that .030 to .032" quench was putting the piston a little close to the head even though its only a 5000rpm big block. What do you think? Thanks, Pat

Pat,
Get a set of Cometic MLS gaskets. Not cheap but probably the best gasket you can buy & you can order them in different thicknesses from .028 up.
I believe they have .059 & .067 or thereabouts.
If you have any problem just email me & I will get the info for you tomorrow, I have the updated list of thicknesses in the shop ;)

Mike, So you agree that .032" Quench is too little? What do you recommend? Can I call you in the shop tomorrow? Thanks

Pat,
Yes, give me a call after 10am if you like ;)

I would prefer a little more room but if you are sure of the quench in every cyllinder I would have no problem running it especially to only 5000.

I've posted these before but here it is again ;)
First engine was regarding a small block.

I have run them in the bore about .012 with the 1094 gaskets that are .015 thick to 8000 without problems. Sounds like you are right there now. A .032-.033 deck won't be a problem with steel rods. It's a bit close but they shouldn't hit & even if they touch it shouldn't hurt anything. Keeps the rods from stretching :D

I ran a 482 rat years ago that I shifted at 8400 & went through the lights at about 8600 with the pistons .008 out with a .039 & they were just showing signs of hitting on the quench side.
Ran it that way for 2 or 3 years & sold it to a boat guy after that. damn thing had so much time on it it was getting a ridge LOL