Lacking info on Best head gasket fitting. Set is RS-515-G

[Bluebell]

I have a set of Best gasket graphtite head gaskets. They both appear to be exactly the same. They both look like they are made to fit cyls. 5 to 8 (left side) and not 1 to 4 (right side)
To my mind the small water holes should be at the front of the engine on both sides and the skinny side of the fire rings should be to the heads (words "Best Gasket 515" up)
If I have it right, these gaskets should be "handed" but on visiting Best gaskets web site it appears there is only one gasket made to fit both sides.
Can someone wise me up please?

[Lawrie]

I asked best gaskets this the other week, they said the small water holes go to the front
Lawrie

[Bluebell]

Lawrie, that will only work on one side? This is why I ask.
The only way to make it work is to put the right side gasket on upside down (if you follow?) This does put the notch and small holes to the front. Is that what you mean?

[Lawrie]

I asked and they said the notch faces forwards
Lawrie

[Ronnie]

There are no L/H & R/H gaskets on a 59a.The notch is the reference.There is no top or bottom reference just "front" reference.Gasket performs correctly regardless of bore flange orientation.Many engines are done like that.A small block ford is another example.

R

[callbald]

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if you using graphite be sure to check for raised bumps. Happened to me and the gasket would not seal. They shipped a copper replacement that installed just fine. They weren't ready to cover the mechanic labor to remove old, reclean head and reinstall.

[Bluebell]

Thank you Ronnie, Lawrie, and Callbald.
Thats what I needed. It might sound strange but 45 years a mechanic and only built 2 v8s before.(both 351C)
Only a small percentage of vehicles here are V8s.