Re-using head gasket?

[JohnRoss]

Further to recent topic on "No oil in tappit area" where I had just fitted cylinder head, I also ordered from UK a new cyl head gasket, which are unavailable here in Cyprus. The engine was only run briefly when on getting fully warmed up it was found that no oil was reaching the head, a squeeking sound coming from under the rocker cover!! I have found what the problem is but will have to refit the head. Dare I ask, is it ok to use this new head gasket again?
Any advice gratefully accepted from A Scott Abroad!
John Ross
Limassol

[lambrettalad]

I would not ,far too risky for a few euros /pounds

[mike.perry]

Stick the old gasket back on, buy a new gasket and if you do not have to use it then keep it on top of your spare wheel just in case

[lambrettalad]

if you do need it ............................

[JOWETTJAVELIN]

Old can be used if in good nick and removed carefully, but a new one is preferable.

[bmcecosse]

In the good old days -I reused many a head gasket. It will be fine - remember a thin smear of grease on both faces. I understand there are quite a few Minis in Cyprus - so anyone who works with Minis will have head gasket and knowledge to work on your Minor engine.....

[JohnRoss]

Thanks bmcecosse,
What about the cylinder head cover, I have a new one of those but do you have any advice on sealing?
I have used silicone in the past but it always seems to either stick too well or not stick at all in certain areas eg at the top-back.
Is there anything better?
JR

[mike.perry]

Stick the gasket to the rocker box with non hardening sealant such as blue Hylomar to hold it in place then fit the rocker box to the head.

[Declan_Burns]

Or use a rubber gasket instead of the cork. I usually make my own but they are commercially available.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CLASSIC-MINI- ... 19e266ac01
Regards
Declan

[bmcecosse]

A carefully 'stuck on' rocker gasket (I use contact adhesive) lasts pretty much for ever... Don't overtighten when fitting the rocker cover.....

[katy]

Many moons ago I was taught that when re-using a head gasket, to put it in the oven @ ~350º F for about 1/2 hour to re-expand it. Done lots this way (and also the thin smear of grease trick) and no problems.
Mom wont let you use the oven? A BBQ would probably do just as well. Methinks that the temp is not that critical as long as you don't overcook it.

[mike.perry]

Do you have to turn the gasket over after 15 mins?

[bmcecosse]

This is not anything I have ever heard of - or done....... Sounds quite a high temp to me - far higher than the gasket experiences on the engine - where it will only see ~ 90 C.

[JohnRoss]

I have always siliconed gasket to rockercover and then siliconed that lot to cylinder head (where it has often leaked oil)
So is it correct to only stick gasket to rockercover and then place on cylinder head "dry"?

[bmcecosse]

Yes - and don't overtighten! The usual problem is that the rocker cover has been overtightened in the past - and has collapsed slightly where the studs poke through - so make sure any collapse is pressed out, and then just 'nip down' the flange nuts to seat the cover.

[kennatt]

Many moons ago I was taught that when re-using a head gasket, to put it in the oven @ ~350º F for about 1/2 hour to re-expand it. Done lots this way (and also the thin smear of grease trick) and no problems.
Mom wont let you use the oven? A BBQ would probably do just as well. Methinks that the temp is not that critical as long as you don't overcook it.

What about salt and pepper,centre of oven or top(Just having a laugh katy don,t take offence non intended)