I have heard that the stock head gasket is better than the cometic head gasket and that it can handle the hp. Is this true?

I understand hks is better but the price of 300+ vs 60 for stock head gaskets can save me some extra money if it is not really needed.

 

I'm not a builder or tuner but I found this write up to be informative. http://www.cj-motorsports.com/headgaskets.htm

 

The HKS is far superior to the Cometic/Cosworth or the stock gasket.

Are you talking wheel HP or flywheel HP?

Why not put in the best in the first place. You want to tear your upper motor apart when you realize the stock or Cometic/Cosworth HG weren't enough. Is that worth saving $280?

JET

 

thanks for the info. It says, "Many VQ35DE builders have had issues sealing the headgaskets beyond 500rwhp using OEM headgaskets and standard ARP head studs torqued to 70-80ft-lb." So if I'm shooting for 400-450whp then I shouldnt have any issues.

Anyone using the stock hg with 400-500whp?

 

Well if could take into account many people on stock blocks in the low to mid 400's on a regular basis I would say the headgasets should do, but hey why not take a little insurance in order to not find out it doesn't work, you will spend more than the cost of the HG to go in and fix it.

 

good pt.

Does anyone know if once u tear down the engine to put in piston/rods if all the gaskets have to be replaced (rebuilt gasket kit from nissan)?

 

HKS head gasket is the best to date so far

 

Are u being sarcastic ? Or are u serious ???

 

I just want to make sure I get everything so I dont have down time. Sorry for the newbie questions.

So far I have:
Wiseco pistons/ eagle h rods
arp head studs
aam fuel return line

Need to buy:
HKS gaskets
rebuild gaskets

Will I need arp main studs for 400-450hp? On SGP site it recommands it if pushing 550whp.

Am I missing anything else? Thanks for the help.

 

If ur going to do it --Do it right ,, Bite the bullit. Iv built a lot of motors and if I didnt cover all the ifs,ands,and buts, I would just feel as though I did it half a$$. My belief is ---as long as ur there---Just do it and be done with it. TO much work for short cuts. Good Luck !!

 

HKS Stopper ring metal head gasket...definately a better solution vs. stock. Located here: http://www.forgedperformance.com/sto...cat=276&page=1
We use it in all of our stockish bore size engines. Plenty in stock..if anyone needs one.

 

Go with the stronger L-19 head studs (really expensive but well worth it), new rev-up oil pump, new water pump, do the ARP main studs as well, get new acc drive belts, and UR pulleys (crank pulley @ minimum).

JET

 

I would recommend the HKS Stopper Gaskets, like others have stated, it's best to do things right the first time Also ARP Main studs would be a good idea. The additional cost is minimal and something you are going to want to do.

By the way I noticed you're in california, who will be performing the work?

Good luck!

-George
GT Motorsports

 

/\ These are the people you want building your motor! /\

I got mine built @ GTM!

JET

 

Thanks Jet Hows the car runing? I saw the Dyno looks good, Sharif did a great job, hope your enjoying it!

-George
GT Motorsports

 

Yes you need the kit, if you have the engine down to the bare short block that rebuild kit has all of the little gaskets and oring needed, you will end up with an extra set of OEM headgaskets.

 

thanks.

does anyone have a part number or link to it for a good price? I found it once online and now I cant seem to find it.

 

Since we build so many vq35's, we have a great relationship with the local Nissan dealer here, I'll be happy to price you out any parts that you need, pm me and we'll talk..I have a gasket overhaul kit in stock, and several sets of OEM headgaskets


and reg. the upgraded headstuds..L-19 are great, but 1/2" head studs are even better..any motor that we build over 500rwhp, we strongly recommend the 1/2" head studs, the larger stud provides unbeatable strength. I know several guys are pushing the limits with the L-19...but the aluminum block can only hold so much (our ARP 1/2" head studs are installed with use of steel insert timeserts)

-TODD