FrontEngineDragsters.Org Forum

Technical => Matt Shaff's Engine Shop => Topic started by: msundstrom on January 05, 2015, 09:32:12 AM

Title: Copper head gasket
Post by: msundstrom on January 05, 2015, 09:32:12 AM

Are there any issues good or bad with having more or less exposed copper to the non quench areas (combustion chamber)? With a smaller ID gasket does the smaller quench area have any effect on combustion efficiency and power?
Thanks
Mark S

Title: Re: Copper head gasket
Post by: Frontenginedragsters on January 06, 2015, 03:47:30 PM

 Hello Mark:
You don't want the head gasket hanging into the bore if it's going to hurt airflow around the valves.
How much is hanging in the bore?

Matt

Title: Re: Copper head gasket
Post by: msundstrom on January 06, 2015, 04:35:00 PM

None would be overhanging the bore, bore is 4.350". If I use a 4.380" gasket it will have about .060" copper exposed at the spark plug side of the combustion chamber (BBC iron head). If I use a 4.520" gasket it is right at the chamber edge. The difference is .16 CC's, I know it's not a lot but would like to have it. Would the exposed copper be a possible preignition spot?
Thanks
Mark S

Title: Re: Copper head gasket
Post by: Frontenginedragsters on January 07, 2015, 04:59:07 AM

 Mark:
I don't think that would cause a problem.

Matt

Title: Re: Copper head gasket
Post by: wideopen231 on January 14, 2015, 06:17:03 AM

risk vs reward. If you think there is slimmest chance that the exposed gasket might cause detonation and you are gaining very little.  Why chance it? Plus if your looking for more compression what thickness gasket now,can you get thinner if buying anyway? Plus return on higher compression is minor,especailly the higher you get.

Maybe cleanup are that will be exposed and met in the middle?