Head gaskets only last a year...

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RockinRobin

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I have a month off from racing so I have time to replace head gaskets....again. They only seem to last about a year. I've been using Felpro because Cometic wasn't available, but I have them this time ,MLX head gaskets. Is this normal for aluminum heads, 13.5:1 compression and leaded race gas? I have ARP head bolts, and I have the heads surfaced every time they come off. Race only motor never goes over 185 degrees.
 
Hemi right? Should use studs with aluminum heads
 

I have had multiple problems with the
Fel Pro gaskets when used with an Iron Block
and Aluminum Heads.

Corrosion develops around the water passages
even with water wetter or Anti-Freeze after a period
of time. My guess is that it loosen the head bolts just enough
to cause an issue.

I seemed to postpone the issue if we drained the water every time
after the race.

When we went to the Cometics the problems seem to have disappeared.



My .02 = For free!
 
Last edited:
I have had multiple problems with the
Fel Pro gaskets when used with an Iron Block
and Aluminum Heads.

Corrosion develops around the water passages
even with water wetter or Anti-Freeze after a period
of time. My guess is that it loosen the head bolts just enough
to cause an issue
Bearing in mind this is a Gen 3 hemi and it’s happening every season
 
What exactly is the problem? Coolant leak? Combustion fire ring blowing out? Other?
 
Run a multi layer gasket and have fire rings installed. Steve does it to many race engines including diesels. Some get them in the heads and some get them in the block. Mine lasted for 8 yrs pulled for a refresh and no sign of failure
.SK Machine | Danielsville PA

Here is a picture of what they are.

20191030_195627.jpg


20191030_164005.jpg
 
I have had multiple problems with the
Fel Pro gaskets when used with an Iron Block
and Aluminum Heads.

Corrosion develops around the water passages
even with water wetter or Anti-Freeze after a period
of time. My guess is that it loosen the head bolts just enough
to cause an issue.

I seemed to postpone the issue if we drained the water every time
after the race.

When we went to the Cometics the problems seem to have disappeared.



My .02 = For free!
Going with Cometic this time and switching from ARP bolts to ARP studs. Will go the fire ring route next time if this doesn't work. It had water and water wetter in it.
 
We also run water wetter. Tracks frown on Antifreeze coolant. You lay down coolant they put you on the trailer one warning and two weeks out. Second time your done for the season.
 
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