Topic: Cycle X gaskets, Did I get the wrong head gasket?

[TimboTec]

Got the rebuild kit from Cycle X for a 1976 Cb750, the base gasket fit fine but im having some issues with the head gasket, seems to be just off. Shouldnt it lay completely flat and not bulge up at all?
 see pics

[550Resto]

My guess would be that it would form a seal once you start to tighten everything down. Looks like it's slightly raised, what is the material ?

[TimboTec]

You are correct it is slightly raised on the front all the bolt holes line up but as it sits right now between the two locator dowels, its causes the slight bulge in the middle, almost like its too long on that side. 

Im not sure of the material, its different than the base gasket which seemed to be the regular fiber kind. I dont believe its MLS either, although it has a slight sheen to it.  I am wondering if I just torque the head down if the gasket will stretch and compress to fit?  Planing on calling cycle x tomorrow to see what they say.

[TimboTec]

Just as a bump and for anyone curious,
I talked to the folks at cycle X and the type of gasket is the standard fiber but it has a heat resistant graphite coating. They recommended just using a Dremmel tool to widen the alignment dowel holes so it will sit flat and to install it dry.  Anyone think this is a bad idea, should I just get a different gasket?

[markreimer]

I've used Cycle-X gaskets a couple times on my 750 K4 and I remember having a little bulge around the cam chain tunnel too once. If memory serves, it flattened out as I dropped the head on, and it never leaked since. My second one fit better.