Installing a head gasket - 1939 A

[Peyton]

Looking for advice on the proper installation of a head gasket. Unfortunately, it is already installed. My mechanical consultant advised me to install the crimped side (or fire ring) toward the block, smooth side toward the head. I did that the other day, using RTV high temp gasket maker on both sides. A friend just loaned me Green Magazine for March and I just read an article that says the fire ring should be to the head and the smooth side to the block. Who is right? My consultant has been rebuilding engines for more than 50 years. I don"t know the author of the article from Adam. And more to the point, if I installed it wrong, what is the likelihood the gasket will fail? Should I open it back up and reinstall it if I did it backwards?

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Buster]

Smooth side toward the block, I installed one wrong and about a year later the cylinders started getting water in them.

 

[44 Diesel Tech]

They can leak either way. Leave as is. Make sure you retorque after having it run after a few hrs part load.

 

[Anonymous-0]

I'd remove it and get that "RED RTV High Temp Sealant" off the gasket. If you use anything, use Coppercoat or aluminum spray paint. Smoothe side towards the block.

 

[David G]

I agree, RTV on a head gasket is bad. I use aluminum paint, or copper if the head or block are not good.

 

[teddy52food]

I don't think it should make any difference. Retorque it after running an hour or so. The 318 v8 mopar engines use one gasket opposite the other & there are many miles with no gasket problems on them.

 

[gtx1967jewison]

not sure about which way to face it but in my opinion that gasket is destroyed. RTV, really?

 

[Lee B]

Ever notice that they DON'T come with warning labels or instructions?

Because it doesn't matter. And anybody who says it does is a witch doctor. The RTV will provide you with the cleanest tractor in ANY line up you care to join. Kudos.

 

[Peyton]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I"ll admit to not having a clear idea what to do next. But, shoot, this sure is fun!