reusing the head gasket

[scottsgs]

Hi all,

I have heard that the metal head gasket can be reused after it has been annealed. How is this done exactly? Is there a certain temp that needs to be applied? A Certain amount of time?

Thanks,

Scott

[Nessism]

Copper head gaskets can be annealed by heating with a torch and then quenching in water. GS head gaskets are not normally made of copper though, other than some aftermarket parts.

[toolman]

hi scott , it depends what type of steel gasket you have.there are several the first is a multi layer steel gasket these should not be reused as they have crush zones that can only be crushed once .
the others are a steel one and a copper one, the copper one is the best .
as far as anealing the gasket you get a propane torch and re heat the gasket slowly. it dosent have to get red hot, but almost .moving the torch back and forth over the gasket slowly and evenly untill it starts to change color with the heat ,this will take some time . when you get it hot enough quench it with water
good luck .....toolman

[Dave8338]

I would rather put a new gasket in and have IT leak...than to use an old gasket and have IT leak.