Opinions?

http://www.scegaskets.com/asianSearch_IE4.asp

 

i run them with O-rings, you have to change them every so often, so unless you are prepared to O-ring and replace every 5k do not use them. otherwise they almost guarantee that your head will not lift. they only cost 50 anyway, O-ringing is like 100 and the wire should cost 5, you will need a special sealant like Hylomar or permatex orange.

 

Could a step-decked sleeve be used instead of the o-rings?

 

not sure, dont think that it will create the same cruch seal as the aircraft wire, I use 0.043 wire, half goes into head, half goes into crushing the gasket - its more PSI of sealing power than the width of the sleeve you are using. wait for some more replies maybe someone tried it out already.

 

Some shops install thir sleeves .002 above the deck to act like an o-ring. Wouldn't try it with a steel shim head gasket but would work with sandwich style. I personally use the o-rings but either way works.
Earl

 

Thanks for the opinions.

I'm having my sleeves stepped so I guess this headgasket option is out.