Is anyone else having problems with the FelPro 1010 head gaskets?

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Sep 3, 2001 | 03:03 AM

91tpi-zf

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Racer

Joined: Oct 1999

Posts: 467

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From: Lufkin tx

Is anyone else having problems with the FelPro 1010 head gaskets?

Well, I noticed a loss of coolant again, so after investigating it turns out I have a bad head gasket. For those of you that dont recall, the samething happened last summer. Both gaskets failed in the same manner (i.e. metal ring pulling away from compsition material). This was the same side that failed last year also, but for kicks I pulled the other head off and the gasket was doing the same exact thing but it hadnt started leaking yet. The gaskets are doing this at the ends nearest the end of the block (cyl #1,#7, #2, #8). I have been running a new set of ARP bolts also. The only thing I can come up with is that the block is too smooth (hasn't been decked, but is flat) for the gaskets to get a good grip and is moving as the block/heads contract/expand. I will try the Victor Reinz gaskets this time, but only after a little head work :D

Sep 3, 2001 | 06:39 AM

Aggravated4life

Race Director

Joined: Aug 2000

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Re: Is anyone else having problems with the FelPro 1010 head gaskets? (91tpi-zf)

Interesting topic...I have these and had no problems...my block was decked as well.The engine builder said he always decks the block for rebuilds to ensure a good seal for any gaskets the customer wants.
Hmmm..if they pulled apart that easily, ill keep that in mind.
Maybe they arent the best build quality..I dunno...so far Ive been luck with them.

Sep 3, 2001 | 03:36 PM

Cory@LS2PortWorks

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Joined: Jul 2000

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From: Bremerton WA

St. Jude Donor '09

Re: Is anyone else having problems with the FelPro 1010 head gaskets? (91tpi-zf)

What kind of bolts are you using? If you're reusing stock bolts my opinion is that you're playing with fire (and coolant!). The ARP bolts are nice and not that expensive. These can be used over and over again. Cheap insurance.

Cory

Sep 3, 2001 | 05:50 PM

Corvette_Z51

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Joined: May 2001

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From: NY

Re: Is anyone else having problems with the FelPro 1010 head gaskets? (91tpi-zf)

I have the Felpro 1010 gaskets on my supercharged TPI motor with AFR heads and have no problems.
What do you torque the ARP head bolts to? Do you use the NOS system listed on your modification page?

Sep 3, 2001 | 06:02 PM

91tpi-zf

Thread Starter

Racer

Joined: Oct 1999

Posts: 467

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From: Lufkin tx

Re: Is anyone else having problems with the FelPro 1010 head gaskets? (Corvette_Z51)

The bolts, which are ARP brand, were torqued to 70 ft.lbs for the long and 65 ft. lbs. for the short with thread sealer and moly lube under the washers. I have not yet used the NO2. :confused:

Sep 3, 2001 | 10:02 PM

ralph

Le Mans Master

Joined: Feb 1999

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From: somers, ny

Re: Is anyone else having problems with the FelPro 1010 head gaskets? (91tpi-zf)

FYI, if the 1010 is the .015 gasket, Felpro does not recommend it for applications over 10:1 CR.

Sep 3, 2001 | 10:55 PM

Corvette_Z51

Instructor

Joined: May 2001

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From: NY

Re: Is anyone else having problems with the FelPro 1010 head gaskets? (ralph)

The FelPro 1010 is a composition gasket, pre flattened copper fire rings for use with aluminum heads, 0.039" compressed thickness, 4.166" bore.

Sep 3, 2001 | 11:04 PM

clem zahrobsky

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Joined: Mar 1999

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From: delmont pa

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Re: Is anyone else having problems with the FelPro 1010 head gaskets? (Corvette_Z51)

you have detonation to blow the gaskets in this location. also make sure none of the head bolts are bottoming out. install them without the washers for a test to make sure they go all the way down. been there done that with after maket bolts as they are longer than the stock chevy. :chevy