Thicker Head Gasket after Skimming?

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doolie
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Post Tue Jul 04, 2006 4:31 pm

Anyone know if after i've fitted a reconditioned (and skimmed) head whether it is essential to fit a thicker head gasket? I guess fitting a standard one will up the compression ratio slightly, meaning i might have to run higher octane fuel?
BMW_YARD
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Post Tue Jul 04, 2006 5:03 pm

Depends what how much material has been removed, what is the model code of your engine M20/M40 ?

The cylinder head may be skimmed to a minimum height of 140.6mm for the 318i and 124.7mm for the 320i.
dazleeds
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Post Tue Jul 04, 2006 5:09 pm

dealers sell both normal and thicker gaskets for skimmed heads
www.oldskoolfantasy.co.uk
in the shit,the one to blame,yeh its all my fault ;)
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doolie
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Post Tue Jul 04, 2006 5:37 pm

It's the 325 engine. I wouldn't mind upping the compression ratio a little really, just I don't want valves getting too close to pistons!
Demlotcrew
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Post Wed Jul 05, 2006 10:19 pm

You wont need the thicker gasket on a M20

Got for the extra compression

Andrew