Gasket for aluminum head

[sser2]

I am considering an aluminum head for my flat six, but have concerns about what kind of gasket should go under it. I have seen head gaskets on eBay for Mopar engines that were stamped "for aluminum head only". This raises the question - is special gasket necessary, or just regular Mopar copper gasket is OK?

I know from experience with other engines that gaskets for aluminum head are critical, and non-OEM gaskets are prone to failures. This is because aluminum has much higher thermal expansion than cast iron of the block, and the gasket must hold under repeated thermal movement of engine's heating/cooling cycles.

Those of you who installed aluminum heads, what gaskets are you using? 

[Don Coatney]

If you are buying a new head from one of the folks who are building the new aluminum heads I suggest you go to them for recommendations. 

[Andydodge]

When I obtained the Edgy finned head from Earl Edgerton I asked him re this and was told that it is not recommended to use a copper head gasket, due to the possible reaction between the alloy and copper......I was also intending to use ARP studs which instead of the original style bolts would or could have exacerbated the problem.........after checking with a few people I ended up getting a full gasket set from Best Gasket which included a steel head gasket............when I mentioned the copper/steel conundrum they knew exactly what I was concerned about and advised that the steel head gasket would be fine..........apparently this is a standard and well known change that Frod hot rodders have dealt with when using the various finned alloy heads over the years..........I ended up selling the engine before completing the buildup however so cannot give a final report but that's my involvement in the head gasket debate........lol...........Andy Douglas    

[55 Fargo]

8 minutes ago, Andydodge said:

When I obtained the Edgy finned head from Earl Edgerton I asked him re this and was told that it is not recommended to use a copper head gasket, due to the possible reaction between the alloy and copper......I was also intending to use ARP studs which instead of the original style bolts would or could have exacerbated the problem.........after checking with a few people I ended up getting a full gasket set from Best Gasket which included a steel head gasket............when I mentioned the copper/steel conundrum they knew exactly what I was concerned about and advised that the steel head gasket would be fine..........apparently this is a standard and well known change that Frod hot rodders have dealt with when using the various finned alloy heads over the years..........I ended up selling the engine before completing the buildup however so cannot give a final report but that's my involvement in the head gasket debate........lol...........Andy Douglas    

Good informative info Andy, nice to hear from someone who has the experience with the question....

[sser2]

Thanks for your replies, guys.

As Don recommended, I inquired with Earl Edgerton (Edgy), and this is what he answered:

I use a felpro gasket.  Also, Best Gasket makes a good one.  I recommend spraying both sides with coppercoat.  Initially torque the heat to 60lbs.  Start the engine up to operating temp.  The next day when it's cold re torque to 60lbs.  You should be good to go.  Also Head studs are better than head bolts.

Earl

I looked up for the availability and price of these gaskets. Fel-Pro gasket set (including manifold and valve cover gaskets) is 7564C, and it is available from Auto Zone for $35.99. Best Gasket thing is available from Andy Bernbaum for $39.50. 

I can add to this that I had only positive experience with Fel-Pro gaskets, and trust this brand. It would be a good idea to use all new studs. Hardened steel washers under head nuts is a must for aluminum heads.