Cologne V6i Head Gaskets

[John042]

Good Morning All.I sure this problem/query has been raised before but "Search" didn't really answer my query. Basically I've got a head gasket set marked Granada 2.8i. However, when placed on the block coolant holes are either blanked off on two cylinders or don't match others.
I've bought another set for a Capri 2.8 which is better in that most of the holes match. Some holes in the block are still covered and slots in the block only have a matching small hole in the gasket. Discussion with PH Andy leads me to believe that Ford did modify gasket layout to improve coolant flow? Therefore is it advisable to enlarge some holes in the gasket to match the block/head coolant passages? My engine is a 1984 V6i. Thankyou for any replies. Cheers J C.

[phillpot]

John042 said:

Therefore is it advisable to enlarge some holes in the gasket to match the block/head coolant passages?

No!


The small holes are usually towards the front of the engine, to restrict flow near the water pump and drive more coolant to the rear of the engine.

Don't know about the 2.8 for sure but on the later 2.9 the gaskets are handed.

[John042]

Thanks phillpot. The first set of gaskets I had didn't have any holes along two cylinders. The next set, at least had some holes match my block/heads but not matching the contours of the casting. The side nearest the tappets have only very small holes in the gasket (3mm) whilst the block has large slot type holes. As I said, I think I'll fit the later gasket bearing in mind your advice and leave the hole size as it is. Thanks J C.

[cologne2792]

Talk to Martin at Capri Gear, he usually knows these things

[John042]

Thanks Cologne 2792. Martin, Capri Gear, was most helpful. Consensus of opinion is that Ford made many alterations to the head and gasket design to prevent hot spots and premature gasket failure. Most of these alterations seem to have been simply restricting coolant flow by decreasing aperture size of some holes in the gasket. So plan "B" is to fit the gasket which matches most of the holes in the block/head. Thanks for the replies. J C.