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Old 09-18-2025, 07:59 PM   #1
69a
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Default Head gaskets. 59A heads on 8BA block.

Is there any advantage or disadvantage as to whether I can use 8BA head gaskets?
I have always used the 59A gaskets, but I now have several sets of 8BA's hanging on the wall. It means I have to buy a complete 8BA gasket set AND a pair of 59A head gaskets...
Thanks.
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Old 09-18-2025, 08:37 PM   #2
19Fordy
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Default Re: Head gaskets. 59A heads on 8BA block.

When I installed early style heads on my 8BA block I had to use early style head gaskets as 8BA gaskets won't work.
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Old 09-18-2025, 10:09 PM   #3
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Default Re: Head gaskets. 59A heads on 8BA block.

Quote:
Originally Posted by 19Fordy View Post
When I installed early style heads on my 8BA block I had to use early style head gaskets as 8BA gaskets won't work.


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Old 09-19-2025, 03:26 AM   #4
Mart
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Default Re: Head gaskets. 59A heads on 8BA block.

My French motor has 8BA type head faces. I use 59A style Edelbrock heads.
I use 2 right side 8BA gaskets. One has to go on upside down. I trim off the extra sticky out bit from the gaskets.

I show it in this video.

https://youtu.be/YPozuUEAmJM

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Old 09-19-2025, 07:28 AM   #5
mfirth
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Default Re: Head gaskets. 59A heads on 8BA block.

19Fordy, I still LOVE that engine, could stare at it all day .......
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Old 09-19-2025, 08:08 AM   #6
Tim Ayers
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Default Re: Head gaskets. 59A heads on 8BA block.

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19Fordy, I still LOVE that engine, could stare at it all day .......
Agreed.
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Old 09-19-2025, 09:15 AM   #7
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Default Re: Head gaskets. 59A heads on 8BA block.

You need to use 59A gaskets whenever mixing and matching blocks and heads between the two variants.

And the extra coolant hole needs to be plugged in the 8BA component.
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Old 09-19-2025, 03:43 PM   #8
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Default Re: Head gaskets. 59A heads on 8BA block.

Thanks everyone!
I've ordered a set of 59A's
Thanks Mart, I watched the video, a couple of good tips.
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Old 09-19-2025, 05:35 PM   #9
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Default Re: Head gaskets. 59A heads on 8BA block.

Thanks, gentlemen, for the kind "engine words".
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