Head gasket reuse URGENT

[audi90]

Just torqued my head new gasket down and realised I have put the valve oil seals on wrong( on stem shaft instead of behind collet),so I need to take the head off. The engine hasn't been started.
So can I reuse and torque the head down reusing this head gasket or will I need to fit another NEW one.
If someone could let me know I would appreciate it very much. Cheers

[philthehill]

I would suggest that for the price of a head gasket http://www.morrisminorspares.com/engine ... cc-p830230 it would be better to replace the head gasket as you will have crushed the head gasket and any head gasket sealing rings when torqued.
The gasket you take off can be retained and could be used as a once only get you home item.
Phil

[audi90]

Thanks I will get another better safe than sorry

[bmcecosse]

I would use it - no problem - I 've re-used old head gaskets in the past without slightest problem. Just DO IT!

[IslipMinor]

Unless you need to finish it off urgently, I would definitely get another head gasket. You might get way with re-using the existing one, but part of the head gasket gene structure is they let go at the most inconvenient times!

[bmcecosse]

It's not been run - tighten it to 44 ftlbf when refitting - with a smear of grease on both surfaces - it will be fine. But see the tip about old Indian rope trick before lifting the head.

[oliver90owner]

Have a look at the thread, on today, re removing valve springs with the head in situ. Head gaskets used to be reused regularly in days long gone, but not recommended on the more modern designs with less tolerance. Take heed of IslipMinor's comment re failure.

You can get away with it but is it worth it - unless you are really stuck? I don't think so. One would not even countenance reusing a head gasket on a modern diesel engine. The last time I reused a gasket was back in the 1980s on a 7 1/4 litre OHV engine. I think it is still OK, but it may be leaking slightly (or it may be that the head is failing after being stitched - after being cracked when a valve dropped in and bounced until the engine seized).

Flat heads were easier and one of my motorcycle head gaskets was reused time and time again back in the 1960s.

[philthehill]

The time this thread has been running the head could have been off, seals sorted - a new gasket fitted and the engine back up and running.
The only loss is £10 for a new gasket set and the time taken - as I said above the old head gasket could be used in an emergency but only in an emergency.
If the other gaskets were greased before fitting they could be easily reused as the grease maintains the gaskets flexibility and suppleness.
Phil

[bmcecosse]

Totally agree!