Topic: k8 head, cycleX MLS head gasket, knock pins and rubber gaskets

[SKTP]

k8 head, cycleX MLS head gasket, knock pins and rubber gaskets

I am installing my head as I type.

I have brandEn's leak free thread printer out beside me and Hondaman's book.

The MLS CycleX head gasket holes are not big enough for the knock pin gaskets...

Do I leave the entire metal knock-pin and the knock-pin-gasket out? (Seems link that's what brandEn is saying)

Or will the rubber squish? Considering trimming the gaskets flush?

[SKTP]

I called and talked with Ken at Cycle X about this. The 8 rubber packing pieces and 8 smaller dowels for the oil drains are not required. The MLS gasket has a raised area around each oil channel (as well as around each cylinder) that will compress as the head is torqued to form a seal.

However, the two larger alignment dowels in the corners are still required. Make sure they are free of burs and can slide into their respective holes easily.

If anyone has questions about Cycle X products I suggest talking with Ken. He is super knowledgeable and a straight shooter.

Regards,

IW

From here: http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=136281.0

[SKTP]

New question: how the heck do you get those small knock pins out?

[SKTP]

So...here's where I'm at. Cases together. MLS base gasket in place. Pistons in. About to put the head on.

I need to remove the knock pins. 3 pulled out easily with just my fingers. 1 one came out with a hard tank of the pliers. The remaining don't seems to be moving. Any tips? I'm thinking blow torch next. They are currently soaking in WD40.

Which makes me worry that that might be contamination my base gasket.

[firebane]

If you really want to knock those loose your going to need something like PB Blaster. WD40 despite what a lot of people think does not dot his type of thing that well. You need something that will really soak in and break the stuff holding it together.

[SKTP]

Do you think PBblaster or liquid wrench would be OK to use...I worry it could contaminate the base gasket...I guess I should just pull off again to be safe? Was really hoping to not have to put the Pistons in again

[firebane]

Might be a pain in the ass but anytime doing stuff like this any gaskets should be removed for easy.

[SKTP]

Yes, thanks guys. The jugs are off and the pins are soaking.

Lots of WD40 got in between the case and the gasket.

Now I need to clean the Viton coated metal CyckeX base gasket...or did I ruin it?

[SKTP]

Talked to Ken at CycleX — great guy... pins should come out and the gasket should be cleaned and it should be good