Topic: Tough head gasket

[Dmitrii]

So i've tried Permatex gasket remover - didn't soften it a bit. I soaked it for about an hour.
Tried propane torching that thing which seems like helped a little, so i started scraping it with razor and realized that i am gouging  and scratching aluminum..
Just found that some people let it soak in permatex overnight, so I covered the gasket with that foam, will see tomorrow what it did
But before i have a question... - there are 4 holes that weren't punctured in the gasket. I can't say if the gasket is original or was replaced before.. Is it supposed to be like that? Does anybody know?

[phil71]

you're showing a base gasket. THat surface is not under high pressures, so SOME nicks and scrapes are not a big deal. Gasket remover should be of more help , but you really gotta let it sit awhile. That gasket is petty thick. Heat gun , a good razor and patience are your best tools.

[KennyRedman]

Yep, the base gasket sucks. A thread a few days ago came to the con census that beer, music, and time is the best approach to removing it.

[InTheStreet]

Also, acetone.  Carefully if you don't want to repaint.  I think I spent 4 hours cleaning mine.  If you use acetone, be sure to keep putting the cap on and open the door. I got a headache.

[Dmitrii]

Thanks, guys!

Ok, then my head gasket came right off without any trouble and looks brand new...
Thats a bad sign I guess. Does that mean that studs got stretched over the time? Or head bolts loosened?

And what about the holes in the base gasket? Were they meant to be closed off?

[dave500]

head gaskets mostly come off clean and intact like that,ive reused good looking head gaskets a few times over with no trouble,a novice should probably replace it though for peace of mind,dont use any sealer on the head gasket or base gasket,some off the holes are redundant.