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MG MGA - Head gasket question

Can I use an early MGB head gasket on my '59 MGA. It is a stock 1500 block and head.

Thanks, John
jjb Backman

I would say yes, because the early MGB head fits the block. Check the holes against the head and block.
Art Pearse

Yup. I've been using late model MGB head gasket (1975-1980) on my MGA since the mid 90's. I like the black composite gasket, never any problems.
Barney Gaylord

I think those black composite gaskets will compensate for all sorts of irregularities in the joint faces. Mine was ok with the composite gasket, I removed the head and re-fitted it with a copper/asbestos gasket and got coolant in the cylinders. I had to get the head skimmed to get a seal. It was quite badly warped, but I bet I would have got away with it if I had fitted another black composite gasket.
Lindsay Sampford

Can anyone suggest a UK-available brand name for these black composite gaskets (or a Moss/MGOC part number)? I've had problems recently with my Z-type 1622 engine and went out of my way to get a Payen. I get the impression that's not what you're talking about.

Malcolm
Malcolm Eades

You can probably get one from Chris Betson, as that's what he's put in my new engine
dominic clancy

Malcom,

Moss US, look in the MGB section. They list two Payen gasket sets.

297-301 $58.95 HEAD GASKET SET, "Payen" brand
Note: (does not include downpipe gaskets - "exhaust donuts") 1962-74

297-321 $57.95 HEAD GASKET SET, "Payen" brand 1975-80

Hopefully you can cross-reference to Moss Europe.

John
jjb Backman

Malcolm
I think the ones they are talking about are the Payen gaskets.

Unfortunately it is about 8 years since I had my head off so I can not remember which gasket I have fitted to my MGA at present, Could be the Payen Copper one though.

However I have had a number of A series heads off and have always used the Payen Black composite on them.

Always buy mine from local Partco.
Robert (Bob) Midget Turbo

Thanks for all the suggestions. If the Z type blows its top again I'll try a black one.

Malcolm
Malcolm Eades

This thread was discussed between 22/10/2010 and 25/10/2010

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