Head Gaskets

[Cooperman]

The BK450 (TAM1521) black composite head gasket has been recalled by the manufacturers due to quality control problems. This applies to all gaskets in stock with stockists.
The problem is that some were made with defective materials and are liable to early failure.

[Cooper1999]

Peter, can you recommend a (reliable) replacement?

[Cooperman]

I've ordered 4 off AF460 gaskets since I need a couple fairly immediately. I haven't used a 460 for a long time, but I think that's the only real alternative at present.
I have had a few problems with the BK450 of late so a 460 can't be any worse really. In fact, I had one BK450 which lasted 4 miles then went between 2 & 3 due to a faulty fire ring. Load of aggro!

[Dino42]

Hmmm didn't know about that although I've just bought a "HEAD GASKET 1300 LATEST GENUINE TYPE" GUG702560HG from Minispares as they were showing out of stock on the TAM1521 I guess we shall see!

[fikus01]

i've had a copper gasket on my race engine for 3 or 4 rebuilds and its come off, gone back on, etc etc. never had a trouble with it! cant go wrong with a copper one if u ask me!

[Mr2Mike]

fikus01 said:

i've had a copper gasket on my race engine for 3 or 4 rebuilds and its come off, gone back on, etc etc. never had a trouble with it! cant go wrong with a copper one if u ask me!

Don you mean a solid copper gasket that can be annealed and reused or the AF460 standard composite/copper gasket? You are not supposed to reuse the latter, and considering the price it's hardly worth the risk.