L88/L89 Head Gaskets

[Ted S.]

Any recomendations on head gaskets for the 3919842 aluminum heads?

[Joe L.]

Re: L88/L89 Head Gaskets

Any recomendations on head gaskets for the 3919842 aluminum heads?

Ted------


Overall, I think that Fel-Pro #1027 will be your best choice. This same gasket is also available under GM #12363414.

A multi-layer steel (MLS) gasket would be somewhat better. However, the problem is that surface finish of the heads and block is CRITICAL when these gaskets are used. If there's any uncertainty, at all, regarding surface finish (and, there usually is especially with used heads and block), then the best bet is to use the above-referenced Fel-Pro or GM gasket.

[Ted S.]

Re: L88/L89 Head Gaskets

Thanks Joe.

I'm getting a little sepage that looks like oil on the mating surface/head gasket at the back and the very front. I'm not sure how oil would get on the mating surface other than from a cylinder.

I can't see a leak anywhere above the surface so it's kind of puzzling. I've got the engine out of the car to go back to a factory cam so I figure I'll pull the heads while the engine's out and see if I can figure out what's going on.