Hks stopper headgasket

[jdub]

Great info J.
I got sick and tired of dealing with machine shop boch jobs, so I got one of Reg's lapping tools and I've been doing them my self with great results. I still suggest going with copper coat on each side of the gasket prior to assembly. I also highly suggest a retorque after the first couple times the engine sees a heavy load such as dyno, quarter mile, etc...

I would love to have one of those tools...they're just so difficult to find. Can't get much smoother than the surface that tool produces.

When to re-torque is really technique...talking to ARP, after 5 full heat cycles is appropriate. A lot of folks say that on studs it's not required, but I do it for peace of mind on both studs and bolts.

Jake - you probably know how I feel about using copper spray on a new MHG.
It's really not required if the RA spec meets the MHG requirements and it can damage the MHG's viton coating:
http://www.supramania.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29335

Using the spray on used a MHG is fine...actually IMO, it's a good idea since it replaces the viton for the initial seal. Just make sure all the old viton is removed before you put it on. Brake cleaner works well for that.

BTW - for those that are interested in the different types of MHG's:
http://www.supramania.com/forums/showpost.php?p=216396&postcount=5

Edit: Got some info from IJ...he tried paint thinner to remove the old viton off his Stopper MHG for re-use. Said it worked 100 tmes better than brake cleaner

 

[3p141592654]

This one is a little small, but it will work. I have one and used it to clean up the machine marks on my head and block.

http://www.statecollegecentral.com/metallathe/MLA19.html

I tried to get Reg's one but he no longer appears to sell it.

You will also need some diamond lapping paste from MSCDIRECT.COM

I used #5 orange (4-8 micron) to get a mirror finish, but if you are in a hurry go with something a little coarser like #15 blue (12-22micron). If you are nuts, try white that gives an optically flat surface!!

http://www1.mscdirect.com/CGI/NNSRIT?PMAKA=05652490

If you plan to lap your block flat without machining, start with a coarse grit like #60 purple, but be prepared to spend many hours on it.