Gang. Currently going through my 1976 455 block more or less up cleaning up some leaks. Looking for some tips on Head and Intake gaskets. I am running of course the iron block but with aluminumn heads and intake. The pistons are bored 30 over. Any suggestions? I seen MLS has some nice head gaskets for the pretty price. Last set i had were stock felpro's. Of course I learned after i pulled the heads off i see where there was penitration into the gaskets.

 

Penetration where?
Felpro's are usually the best!
Are you torqueing the bolts in the right sequence and ft.lbs.?
You usually get what you pay for.

 

I think its important to choose a gasket thats compatible. You probably know this allready..

The final finish RA on your deck surfaces is crucial and you need a gasket that can handle the different expansion rates of the materials.

Felpro blues are good gaskets, but maybe not the best choice nowadays.

My only experience is with the early imports. Even then, I used what came with the repacement heads. So, I'm kinda outa of the loop on this one.

 

Guys thanks for the response.

I know a picture is worth a 1000 words so i will try to get a pic of the old gaskets tonight. Basically above the 3, 5, and 4, 6 cylinders there seems to be area's that look like something got up into them. I am thinking gas. Head bolts were tongued down with ARP bolts so i don't think they had loosened and actually tough to break free.

I checked the deck on both sides and they looked great using a straight edge. I will say the block has never been decked because it still shows the factory markings.

I think in the end it is a case were I need to get the right gaskets that can handle the cooling difference between aluminum and iron.

 

I use Mr. Gasket UltraSeals, no issues ever.