How necessary is decking the block?

[The ROMAN]

My question is for replacing the headgasket in an SR. Can you do a proper headgasket install in your driveway, making sure the head is cleaned really well, or is a complete decking needed?

I've had people tell me decking is only needed for KA-T, and I can get away without pulling the block and sending it out and everything. I'm not sure though.

I'm planning on doing an upgrade in the near future, aiming for a reliable 320hp, and was wondering about the stock headgasket. Thanks.

[burnsauto]

Unless you overheated the engine, and blew the head gasket, decking the block isn't really necessary, especially for a mild build that you're doing. I would advise sending the head to be checked and milled if necessary.

just make sure the gasket surface on the block is hospital clean when reassembling.

[justaKAiswear]

My question is for replacing the headgasket in an SR. Can you do a proper headgasket install in your driveway, making sure the head is cleaned really well, or is a complete decking needed?

I've had people tell me decking is only needed for KA-T, and I can get away without pulling the block and sending it out and everything. I'm not sure though.

I'm planning on doing an upgrade in the near future, aiming for a reliable 320hp, and was wondering about the stock headgasket. Thanks.


Doing a headgasket is a must in my book to replace the 10+ year old stocker. You do not have to have the decking done, you should be able to clean it up with some roloc discs in the driveway. If you can afford the downtime a HG and new Headstuds are insurance you can't afford not to have when you look to creep over that 300hp mark.

[coolcatracing]

If you are using an MLS gasket it becomes very necessary as any small imperfections are more problematic than with the stock gasket.

[burnsauto]

If you are using an MLS gasket it becomes very necessary as any small imperfections are more problematic than with the stock gasket.

people only have trouble with cheaper ones like cometic, more higher end ones i rarely hear any complaints about. And if that still doesn't suit you, copper spray will help out any imperfection. (Even Ivan runs it on his 9 second ka-t)

[justaKAiswear]

If you are using an MLS gasket it becomes very necessary as any small imperfections are more problematic than with the stock gasket.

Yea, your absolutely right man, I was thinkin only about OEM replacements. I would definately get it decked if your going to spend good money on a MLS gasket. I have a lot of people swear by Copper Coat Compund who buy from us, that could be a pretty good option if you don't want to pull the motor. No way I could justify that with a Tomei or Greddy Head gasket, maybe a Cometic or Cosworth and running under 18lbs if you have any cares about longevity or the motor. Just my .02!

[The ROMAN]

Yea, your absolutely right man, I was thinkin only about OEM replacements. I would definately get it decked if your going to spend good money on a MLS gasket. I have a lot of people swear by Copper Coat Compund who buy from us, that could be a pretty good option if you don't want to pull the motor. No way I could justify that with a Tomei or Greddy Head gasket, maybe a Cometic or Cosworth and running under 18lbs if you have any cares about longevity or the motor. Just my .02!

I was leaning towards the Apexi, as that's what most people say is the best. Are you saying you wouldn't use copper coat with the Apexi, either? I don't plan on running more than 18psi.

[burnsauto]

I was leaning towards the Apexi, as that's what most people say is the best. Are you saying you wouldn't use copper coat with the Apexi, either? I don't plan on running more than 18psi.

the a'pexi one is pretty good. I know people who never had the block decked, and run 21 lbs on it. IMO, either tomei or a'pexi are great companies to go with.