reusing metal head gasket

[SharkB8]

I have a rebuilt 650sx motor, assembled with a black metal head gasket a few years ago but the motor has never been started.

I pulled to head off to take a looksee and make sure everything is cool before starting (it was fine - no rust).

Is that head gasket still usable since it was never exposed to heat? Or do metal gaskets only compress well once.

If it makes any difference, it had a film of silicone on it.

 

[c_legaspi]

some say you can re-use it but personally i think its suppose to be a one shot deal. if you do decide to re-use it, i would use the copper spray gasket sealant.

 

[Waternut]

I've reused my kawi head gaskets more times than I can remember. I just spray some of that permatex copper spray on there and reinstall. Many say you should never reuse but I've had successful results with the spray.

 

[kevbo]

You can reuse them as long as all of the black coating has been removed and replaced. Use carb spray or paint remover on the old black sealant. I have had good results with a light coat of Permatex copper spray.

 

[SharkB8]

I was hoping the black coating would still be 'virgin' since the motor has never been started so it never got hot.

 

[cleetus]

shark you heading out today... I think I am...

 

[SharkB8]

I've been sick with the flu for almost a week so I am gonna skip this weekend. I am trying to summon the strength to get out to the garage to put the 650sx motor back together. I am gonna go ahead and re-use that gasket with some gasket spray.

I tried to make an appointment to get tested to see if I am "swine positive" so I will know if I am endangering my kids, but unfortunately our medical system in this area can't test every flu case to see if its swine, even if I were willing to pay for it.