Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Best Head Gasket

[turbo torque]

Building new block from Cummins with Helix 2 Cam. Got a used head that was gone through and decked, not sure how much was taken off.



From my searches it looks like a modified 12v marine . 020 over is the way to go. Is there something better out there?

 

[turbo torque]

No Ideas? Anyone here anything about using a Cometic MLS for a 6. 7 CR on a 98. 5-02?

 

[DAWG-1]

Peak Diesel Performance wil have the correct gasket for your engine. I bought mine from them for my '01. Sam.

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Best to stick with the same head gasket as original, Cummins brand for 24-valve. From the discussion I've read using 3rd Gen MLS gaskets on 12 and 24 valves often have issues, something like delaminating and ultimately leaking and failing, very careful prep is required. Not worth going there.

One thing you don't want to do is a . 020" over on a non-HO 24-valve unless you're essentially building a competition motor, because you'll take the fairly low 16. 3:1 compression ratio down significantly and easily end up with a hard-starting truck that will likely haze all the time. And also FYI having the head decked has next to no effect on the compression ratio, some guys mistakenly think if they take . 020" off they need a . 020" thicker gasket- not so.

 

[turbo torque]

Thanks for reply. The head has been decked to Cummins minimum thickness, 4. 124 has a mirror finish and is going on a brand new block. Do you still think MLS is the wrong way to go? I'm unsure of valve clearance with the Helix 2 cam and considering . 010 over.

 

[ESwartzer]

I put a helix 2 cam in my 98. 5 three years ago and have been using stock valve clearance specs with no issues, just a great running engine. I also can get a solid 23 mpg if I keep my foot out of it on freeway driving. Love that cam!

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

The 12v gasket will leak because it doesn't seal the outer exhaust side water passages in the 24v head.

 

[turbo torque]

Well, the Helix 2 got here today. Will start assembly tomorrow. From the help and info. Iv'e received here, I decided to go with stock Cummins gasket.