Re: Head Gasket
Not sure what the original Ford studs are graded at but everything I've read says to use Grade 5 with a stock head and 8 with a higher compression head.
I put a 5.5:1 head and grade 8 studs in from Brattons a few years ago due to a cracked stock head and a time crunch that kept me from getting it repaired.
First I used the stock copper gasket and it started leaking and running hot not long after. Next I tried the recommended "modern" gasket, same issue. Finally last April I changed to the Graphtite 509G gasket, followed the instructions to the letter and dabbed a little Permatex high tack around the base of each stud for good measure.
Works like a charm! Drove about 50 miles in September(most of the time around 50mph) on a 95 degree day and didn't lose any coolant or come close to overheating.
With a stock head you'd probably do fine with the stock copper gasket but in my opinion I'd go with the Graphtite gasket.
|