Copper head gasket

[SPT]

Having problems with sealing copper head gasket on 4.5 bore D 17 Allis, any suggestions?
 

[Eric segaline]

deck head and block and fire ring it
 

[Ole Johnny]

When I used dead-soft copper head gaskets on my dragster, I had to O ring the block and head so they woudl work. Also it is necessary to use gray silicone to seal the water passages. If there is a composit head gasket for your application, I think that would be much better.
 

[oliver80]

I Always Spray Them With Copper Coat And Never Had Any Problems.My Sleeves Are Ringed Also
 

[wi50]

I alawyse o-ring either the head or the block. Probably easiest to do the head as long as the block deck is flat.

I know there are guys useing composite gaskets on larger bores than that on the Allis and i'd think you can find fire rings and make one from a gasket
 

[SPT]

Thanks for the input.
 

[MLPANKEY]

[EP]

you can get an Isky O ring cutting tool from summit racing and cut a groove in the sleeve to put a piece of wire for your fire ring.I use stainless wire instead of copper wire.Tool is 300$ or so but works great.You will need to practice on an old sleeve or block a couple of times.good luck
 

[Midnightrider]

[Midnightrider]

[jim johnson]

Lubbock gasket in Lubbock Tx. makes a gasket with a wire in it and I believe they guarantee it. You can ask Ken Foland about it because I think he was using one.

Jim
 

[bassndeere]

Crank her up and get her warm, then torque head bolts/studs. Do this at least 3 times, increasing torque everytime to at least 175 lbs. Then but a load on her. PS. cold she will be over 200 lbs.