head gasket thinning question

[pete72]

so I picked up a 97 vmax 600 for cheap and just finished up a rebuild. have yet to throw coolant in. ive left the head gasket stock but have been thinking more and more about removing the center layer. problem is the new one is already torqued down. is it too late to remove and just retorque to spec and not have a leak issue? is it best to just leave well enough alone? if I do thin do I need to rejet? or other stuff?

 

[A couple of bucks]

It would be fine to remove and mod that gasket. I would use either spray Copper coat or High-Tack to insure no leaks. I personally would not remove more that 1 layer on a 97+ twin.

 

[pete72]

really think the copper coat is necessary? its never been ran and no coolant yet. I've used the copper spray in the past and its never worked out. always leaked.

 

[pete72]

I only planned to take out the middle layer. maybe I should leave well enough alone. would like to hear others thoughts as well.

 

[YAMMIEGOD3:16]

if ya want to do this, call cometic and get new. especially on those gaskets. that could be big trouble with coolant if not set. 3:16x (yammie tony)

 

[A couple of bucks]

I've used the copper spray in the past and its never worked out. always leaked.

Having the part you are spraying very warm will flash off the solvents(from the spray) the second it is sprayed on. It doesn't have time to "pool".
I just set mine on the wood burner in the garage.

 

[A couple of bucks]

the new one is already torqued down.

Two stage torque for twins
1st...... 9.4ft lbs
2nd..... 17ft lbs

 

[pete72]

thanks for the info. guess I'm gonna just leave well enough alone. its already on so is what it is for now. probly best of like this for break in anyways. hope spray isn't needed for a new install cuz I didn't use any!

 

[pete72]

do these need re-torque after a heat cycle ???????

 

[A couple of bucks]

Yes..

 

[super1c]

I second just leave alone. The gain is not worth the risk with todays gas and retorque after heat cycle!