Cometic Gasket C5513-060 MLS Head Gasket Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper installation and maintenance of your Cometic Gasket C5513-060 Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) head gasket. Adhering to these instructions will help ensure optimal performance and longevity of the gasket in your Small Block Ford engine. This gasket is designed for a 4.080 inch bore with a 0.060 inch compression thickness.

2. Setup and Installation

Proper installation is critical for the performance of an MLS head gasket. Please follow these general guidelines and always consult your engine manufacturer's service manual for specific torque specifications and procedures.

2.1 Surface Preparation

• Cleanliness: Ensure both the cylinder head and engine block surfaces are meticulously clean and free from any oil, grease, old gasket material, or debris. Use a suitable gasket scraper and solvent if necessary.
• Surface Finish: MLS gaskets require a very smooth surface finish (typically 50 Ra or finer) for optimal sealing. Inspect surfaces for any imperfections, scratches, or warpage. Any surface irregularities can compromise the seal.
• Flatness: Verify that both the cylinder head and engine block surfaces are flat within the manufacturer's specifications. Warped surfaces will prevent proper sealing.

2.2 Gasket Placement

• Orientation: Carefully place the Cometic MLS head gasket onto the engine block. Ensure it is correctly oriented, aligning all bolt holes and passages. The gasket may have a 'FRONT' marking or specific features to indicate correct orientation.
• No Sealants: Do not use any additional sealants, RTV, or gasket dressings with MLS gaskets. These gaskets are designed to seal dry.

Image 1: Cometic C5513-060 Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) Head Gasket. This image displays the full gasket, highlighting its four large bore openings for the cylinders, along with numerous smaller holes for head bolts, coolant passages, and oil passages. The gasket features a multi-layer construction visible at the edges of the bore openings, designed for superior sealing under high-performance conditions. The overall shape is elongated, typical for a V8 engine head gasket, with specific contours to match the engine block and cylinder head.

2.3 Cylinder Head Installation and Torquing

• Careful Placement: Gently lower the cylinder head onto the engine block, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the gasket and dowel pins. Avoid sliding the head across the gasket surface.
• Head Bolts: Use new head bolts or inspect existing ones according to engine manufacturer recommendations. Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts are typically single-use.
• Torque Sequence: Follow the engine manufacturer's specified torque sequence and stages precisely. This usually involves multiple steps and specific angle turns to ensure even clamping force across the gasket.
• Retorquing: MLS gaskets generally do not require retorquing after initial installation, but always refer to the engine manufacturer's guidelines.

3. Operating Considerations

Once installed, the Cometic MLS head gasket functions as a critical seal between the engine block and cylinder head, containing combustion pressures, coolant, and oil. Proper engine operation contributes to gasket longevity.

• Cooling System: Ensure the engine's cooling system is functioning correctly, with proper coolant levels and no air pockets. Overheating can severely damage head gaskets.
• Engine Tuning: For modified engines, proper engine tuning is essential to prevent detonation or excessive cylinder pressures, which can compromise the head gasket seal.

4. Maintenance

While the head gasket itself requires no direct maintenance, its longevity is directly tied to the overall health and maintenance of the engine.

• Coolant System Checks: Regularly check coolant levels and condition. Flush and refill the cooling system according to your vehicle's service schedule.
• Oil Changes: Adhere to recommended oil change intervals and use the correct type of engine oil.
• Temperature Monitoring: Monitor engine temperature to prevent overheating. Address any cooling system issues promptly.

5. Troubleshooting

If issues arise after head gasket installation, consider the following common problems and potential causes.

5.1 Coolant or Oil Leaks

• Cause: Improper surface preparation, warped cylinder head/block, incorrect torque sequence, or damaged gasket during installation.
• Action: Re-inspect installation procedures. A leak typically requires disassembly and replacement of the gasket after addressing the root cause.

5.2 Overheating or White Smoke from Exhaust

• Cause: Combustion gases entering the cooling system or coolant entering the combustion chamber, indicating a compromised head gasket seal.
• Action: Perform a cooling system pressure test and a combustion leak test. If the head gasket is confirmed to be faulty, it will require replacement.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty or technical support, please contact Cometic Gasket directly through their official website or customer service channels. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.