Reusing headgasket

[budsaipan]

I was just wondering if it's okay to re-use a headgasket if the motor hasnt been run yet? I just built an engine (still on stand) with a new headgasket but decided that I want to switch heads. Should I get a new one or can re-use the headgasket.

[nismo dr]

if you torqued it, I would replace it. Probably would be fine to reuse but if its not would you rather swap it on the stand or in the car?

[Skib]

personally Id replace it.

[moparvwfreak]

replace it. better safe than sorry.

[budsaipan]

Alright thanks. I'll go ahead and do that. I was going to replace the u67 to w58 head since I just bought a round port header. But maybe I'll just run the stock l16 manifold with the current setup. Do you guys know what the compression ratior would be on if I had a closed w58 head on the z22 bottom?

 

Here's the current motor.

 

 

[MicroMachinery]

Just get a square port exhaust manifold. The "SSS" ones(ribbed; early L16) are said to be as good as any header. Don't worry about switching heads. Looks good man!

[budsaipan]

Yeah I got one already. Just alot of rust on it. I decided I'm going to have to take the head off after I saw your post. I didnt chamfer the oil hole on the head like you did so I might have to do that.

[hang_510]

or can re-use the headgasket.

save it for an emergency spare.

 

youd be pissed if you had to replace it before its broken in.