Cylinder head gasket - compound/ cement or nothing.

[wyke]

1256 HC 1974
Got new valve springs and head gasket- but not sure about jointing compound.
Getting mixed advice. Haynes not clear and seems to depend on yr of car or type of gasket. Not sure if it is of the reinforced asbestos based - which needs no sealant.
It is a payen type .
Any guidance ?- torque settings for each type ?

[MattHC1600SL]

I would use a little jointing compound on the very edge of the head gasket on the pushrod side only, they tend to weep oil a bit here if you don't. Ive done this on several of my cars over the years and never had a problem. Matt.

[wyke]

Many thanks for prompt response.
What type of jointing compound and wrench settings do you recommend ?
It is a 1256 HC
Thanks again.

[cossieviva]

iv never used jointing compound on a head gasket yet [and that includs hillman imps] just nice clean surfaces and a good torque wrench and follow the tightning pattern in the haynes

[hbpeter]

I used to use Blue Hylomar. Thin smear over all the gasket, both sides. It helps hold it in place while you seat the head. Never had any problems using it. The torque settings should be in the manual.
Peter

[Ralphead]

Araldite all the way. You've got to love a bodge! It did actually work really well.

[Edd_V6]

Ralphead....no doubt you use old socks as airfilters too then.

Edd

[Ralphead]

Socks? Nah I go for free-flow filters. Tights are the way forward!

[Clara]

I used to use Blue Hylomar. Thin smear over all the gasket, both sides. It helps hold it in place while you seat the head. Never had any problems using it. The torque settings should be in the manual.
Peter

I second hylomar! We used it at the garage and never suffered any failures with it. Just a tiny smear (both sides - extra careful to get around the edges) around let it dry for a few minutes and throw the gasket on. Make sure the engine is clean first - whatever you are using. Just a wipe down with a degreaser to ensure a clean stick.