[Fot] Cometic Head Gaskets

[Jack Wheeler]

Does anyone have any experience using Cometic head gaskets with the TR-3/4 engines?  I have a slightly modified (10:1 compression with a cam) engine in my street TR-3.  I built the engine about 2-3 years ago, and it runs great.  However, it has always used water and eventually over heats, especially on real hot days, which we get a lot of in North Carolina.  I have run a test on it, and the engine definitely has a compression leak.
So, I removed the head and inspected the gasket.  It is the stock copper gasket.  There is no obvious indication of a leak around the gasket.  I checked the liner protrusion and all were within spec (.003" - .005").  I have always used Gaskacinch sealant, and have never had one leak before.
A friend of mine, who builds a lot of American engines (racing and otherwise) suggested I look into a Cometic head gasket.  They are supposed to seal better than a copper gasket, though I don't know why.  Sure enough, I looked up their web site and they have a gasket listed for the TR-4 engine (also one for the TR-6).  My only concern is that it is listed as 88MM bore.  I am using a new 87MM piston and liner set.
If anyone has had any experience with these gaskets on the TR-3/4 engines, I would really appreciate any feedback, both positive and negative.  Thanks.
Jack Wheeler
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