Quote:
Originally Posted by AL in NY
From what I've been hearing, the best head gasket for the Model A is a "Best" 509g graphite head gasket sold by Bratton's under part number 8081. This gasket is highly recommended by Rich Falluca of Antique Engine Rebuilders (AER).
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Ditto that. I blew a head gasket last summer and went through the same dilemma as you in selecting a replacement. I have a Snyder 5.5:1 head and the gasket that failed was the "Modern" or "Premium" (Snyder #B-6051-M) described as "a solid steel core sandwiched by heavy-duty high density material coated with silicone..." that needs no sealant. My problem was likely initiated by a wonky stud hole in the cylinder block that allowed seepage and had to be repaired with a helicoil.
The choices for head gaskets seem to be: (a) the silicone "premium" one described; (b) copper outside with a graphite core; or (c) all graphite.
In checking around I called three parts suppliers (including Snyder's) and a couple of knowledgeable mechanics. The majority of them recommended the all-graphite. Even Snyder's told me they have received reports of premature failure of the silicone "premium" head gasket and recommended the "Best" graphite. I asked one mechanic why he preferred the all-graphite over the copper-clad gasket and his reason was that there was a possibility of leakage between the layers (graphite-to-copper). Based on that I installed an all-graphite head gasket. So far, so good (after about 1000 miles).
A couple of other things to consider might be:
(1) once the head is off, let a machinist check it for true and mill it if necessary;
(2) use a head gasket sealant on the new graphite or copper gasket (if one of those is the one you choose);
(3) consider replacing all the head studs and nuts with new ones and give the studs a light coating of anti-seize;
(4) re-torque the head several times after installation (hot and cold);
(5) check your water pump and repair/replace as necessary (I used the opportunity to replace mine with a Rupert "super duty" leakless model);
(6) check the condition of your fan and replace if any cracks.
What I report here has been my experience. Others with more knowledge than me may have different ideas.
Wishing you many happy miles ahead!
Mike in Oregon