O ringed block and stock head gaskets

[Joe 1320]

Anyone tried this combo? I don't think I want to run copper gaskets with the O ring block, but has anyone done it with stock gaskets?

 

[Intercooler]

My original motor that I pulled out was .020" over with this setup. Looking at it I couldn't understand the theory. What I mean is the O-Ring (steel) hit in the graphite all the way around except between cylinders where it actually dug into the fire-ring. Maybe that is the purpose but I don't know how much it actually helps. IMO the 1007's with the correct groove in the head is a better setup if not the best.

 

[Chyke]

I am running figure 8 style o-rings in the block, with the upgraded style factory fel-pros. (9441??)No problems so far. 26psi, and 550rwhp.

 

[Joe 1320]

I've never seen a figure 8 groove. Does it actually cross itself in between cylinders?

 

[Chyke]

The term figure 8 simply implies that the oring groves that are cut into the surface share a common intercection point. For example, the first cylnder has a circle cut compltely around it, an oring is placed from end to end creating a complete ring. The next cylinder actually uses the part of the first ring to create it's boundary facing the opposing cylinder. This is actually a very common method of oringing.

 

[Joe 1320]

Thanks for the description....... Mine is not done that way. I have an individual ring for each hole.

 

[2FAST4U]

Would this not cut the stock style gasket? I've got this setup and am not sure what head gaskets I'm going to run. Would the copper or stacked steel shim gaskets work better with the o-rings? I'm still trying to decide what to run.

 

[Joe 1320]

The copper gaskets are supposed to be run with the o-ring block. The o-ring bites into the gasket for a complete seal around each cylinder. My debate is whether or not to even use the o-ring feature. If the motor does detonate, there is more of a chance at wiping out the bearings, pistons or rods with o-rings. At least without them, it will simply push out the head gasket like a saftey valve. Maybe I'm a little paranoid, I do have a girdle, billet mains, arp studs, TRWs, etc.... I just would rather change a head gasket than hard parts.