hey guys I have a d16a6 and I need to change out the old HG. should I get the stock hg for the block or another version (like a metal version from another year). the reason is because the stock has some sort of sticky stuff on it. it helps bond to the block and head when there is heat cycle. the issue I have is that it gets really messy when its time to change it out again, but if I use a metal gasket I'm only concerned it would work as well and have some leak soon there after.

what do you guys think?
the engine is stock with nothing done to it. just needs a new HG is all.

 

I'd go with just an OEM Honda headgasket. It's a stock motor, no need to get all fancy.

 

You can get a newer OEM Z6 head gasket OR the updated OEM B7 gasket. Both are metal, the B7 I believe is closer in thickness to the original A6 but the Z6 last time I checked was about 1/3 the price plus you'll get a very slight bump up in compression. Don't forget to have the head milled for flatness, mating surface is that much more crucial when using a metal head gasket.

 

those are all very good recommendations. well i wont be milling the head for financial and time reasons. so to be on the safe side i guess i shouldnt be using any metal gaskets?

 

why does it need a new head gasket? Did it overheat?

I don't understand why you would replace the head gasket without having the head resurfaced. Having a head resurfaced costs like $25 at most and takes one day.

All you're going to do is run into problems if the head is warped, a new gasket, no matter the material will not fix your issue.

So do this;
1. Remove head
2. have head resurfaced and checked for leaks. Check block deck with straight edge for warping.
3. clean off any of that copper gasket **** before installing new OEM Gasket
4. reassemble per OEM specs.
5. enjoy car

 

hey guys, I'm also curious. if I use the metal version whats the tq spec on the stock bolts? and whats the spec on the non metal hg? (reusing the stock head bolts)