Briefly, the fluid seal on the copper gasket is a band aid, like "print o
seal" on composite gaskets. The combustion seal on the ics titan looks to
me to be some what forgiving relative to surface finish, flatness, and
waviness that are critical issues with the multi layer steel gasket.
(Cometic) or many OEM gaskets. But, copper gaskets are 1960's technology.
I have a relationship with Cometic, and have helped them with one
application, and do use their products. They do work well if all design
parameters are met, and clamp load is sufficient. The basic design is not
optimum, in my mind, but from what I have seen they perform well except in
the presence of detonation or pre-ignition. Doc, most turbocharged engine
gaskets fail after even a small (not noticeable)detonation event.
For surface finish requirements refer to OEM requirements. 4.6L Ford is a
good example. The sealing group I worked in released MLS gaskets for this
engine for 1992 production, but working to the proper machining tolerances
was quite an experience, and no one wanted to accept a waviness spec. We
were working on MLS head gaskets in the late 80's but could not retrofit an
existing engine. To completely change the machining processes once
established in an existing plant is almost impossible.
I don't have the machining specs, but many engine machine shops have the
equipment and knowledge. If your block and heads were not machined
specifically for MLS gaskets I would not expect them to work perfectly.
More on gaskets in another note.
Rick
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