Tech Tips

Engine Preparation

A. Clean flat surfaces are essential to seal any performance engine. A solvent such as brake cleaner should be used on the block and head prior to assembly.

B. ICS Titan head gaskets have unique patented combustion seals and coolant seals, this gasket requires no O-rings in the block or head(s), be sure to follow installation instructions.

C. The new SCE TITAN self sealing copper head gasket requires no sealant, however if you are using Pro copper head gaskets we recommend and sell KW Copper Coat, please ask your salesman. Always allow the sealant to tack up for 15 to 20 minutes before assembly.

D. O-Rings are required when using Pro Copper or Titan (not ICS TItan) head gaskets. SCE sells stainless steel O-Ring wire in a kit to do one V-8 engine or spools for the engine builder. SCE stainless steel O-Ring wire is preferred over copper wire that can flatten or dent to form a leak path.

E. O-Ring grooves may be cut in either the block or cylinder head. When using copper head gaskets thinner than .050, O-Ring height should be no more than 25% of gasket thickness. For instance, the proper dimensions for an .043 thick gasket using .041 wire would be; a .038 to .040 groove width (provides a .001 interference fit), and a .032 groove depth (leaves .008-.010 of the wire protruding above the deck). This machining can be done at most high performance machine shops

F. When receiver grooves are necessary, alignment of O-Ring and receiver groove is critical, as is the depth and width of the receiver groove. Generally receiver groove depth should be 75% of the O-Ring protrusion and the receiver groove should be 1.5 times the wire width.

G. While the machining of O-Ring and receiver grooves must be done by a machinist, the installation of the O-Ring wire can be done by anyone, using common hand tools. When tapping O-Ring wire into the groove, use care to avoid denting the wire. SCE provides an O-Ring installation kit, (SCE PART #31542) which includes instructions, an installation tool and O-Ring wire. When cutting stainless O-Ring wire, file the ends square to provide the tightest possible seal.

H. Head gaskets should be re-torqued after initial run-in regardless of type, solid copper or composition. SCE recommends using factory torque specs. Do not over torque. Allow the heads and block to cool for accurate torque readings. Always use a torque wrench and have it calibrated often. Premium grade head bolts or studs, with hardened washers are recommended.

I. SCE copper gaskets can be reused 4 to 5 times simply by cleaning in common solvent. DO NOT use a torch or household oven to re-anneal copper gaskets. The annealing process requires special vacuum ovens to achieve satisfactory results.

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