Graphite Grease on Head gasket?

[Lynn]

I should FINALLY be able to assemble my 1.1 Opel GT engine tomorrow evening.

Reading up on the assembly procedure, the shop manual calls for coating the head gasket on both sides with graphite grease. I was thinking I would just spray both sides with Copper Coat.

Strangely, the same shop manual does NOT call for graphite grease on the head gasket of the 1.9 engine. Hmmm. Research indicates that the grease is not intended to help it seal, but intended to make it compress more easily. The 1.9 head bolts torque at 72 ft. lb., but the 1.1 head bolts torque at only 35. Never seen a head bolt torque that low. It is not a mis print, as I checked three sources, and they are all the same.

I think I am going to follow the procedure, but was wondering if anyone had any experience with any other odd little engines that called for graphite grease on the head gasket. If so, has that procedure been updated since 1969?

[VintageMusclecar]

Are the head gaskets OEM?

If not, what does the manufacturer recommend for torque?

[Lynn]

Oem.

[L78steve]

Could it be to allow the head to expand and contract?

[PeteLeathersac]

'

I'd be worried of any Graphite entering the oiling system and do something different.
Cool on the Opel and hope to see more of it!

~ Pete

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[Charley Lillard]

With the hp that thing is going to make you can probably just duct tape the head on.

[L78steve]

Originally Posted by Charley Lillard

With the hp that thing is going to make you can probably just duct tape the head on.

I tried this once. It works good until the head gets hot and melts the tape.

[Lynn]

OK, make fun of my little one lung putt putt car.

Went ahead and covered it in graphite grease. What a mess. Did my best to keep it out of the cylinders, but assume it will burn off on the first start.

Will let you know if the duct tape lets loose.

[Billohio]

alot of good advice here Lynn. Thats why I check daily, hate to miss something I need to know!!

[Unreal]

The graphite will not burn off until at least 1500*F, so it will clear out of the combustion chamber, but will remain on the head gasket.