Engine Gasket Sets

Taking the cylinder head off, or rebuilding the whole engine? A gasket set brings together the gaskets the job requires, so you don't have to source each part individually. Here you'll find top end and bottom end sets for car, motorcycle and personal watercraft engines – for you who strip down or build up the engine yourself.

What does an engine gasket set contain?

A top end set typically covers what needs replacing when the cylinder head comes off, e.g. head gasket, valve cover gasket and gaskets for the intake and exhaust manifold. A bottom end set typically covers the lower part of the engine, e.g. oil pan and crankshaft seals. The contents depend on the specific set, so check the parts list. If you only need one gasket, you can buy it individually among head gaskets, valve cover gaskets or oil pan gaskets.

How to choose the right set

• Engine: The sets are made for specific engines, e.g. Ford 5.0L Coyote, Chevrolet Big Block 396/402/427/454 and GM 6.6L Duramax.
• Bore: Several sets from Cometic Gasket are specified by bore size, e.g. 94 mm, so they can match a stock or overbored engine.
• Thickness: An MLS head gasket – a gasket made of multiple layers of steel – of e.g. 0.040 inches affects the compression ratio, so choose it based on your project and any decked surfaces.
• Engine type: The category also includes sets for e.g. KTM 250 SX-F and Yamaha RA700 WaveRider.

Installation and preparation

Gaskets only seal as well as the surfaces they sit on, so clean and check the flatness of the cylinder head and block. Torque bolts to the manufacturer's specification and sequence. Whether bolts need replacing depends on the engine; a Head Changing Kit for the Ford 5.0L Coyote, for example, is intended specifically for cylinder head swaps. Other brands in the category include Fel-Pro, Wiseco, Vertex Pistons and Hot Rods.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a top end and a bottom end gasket set?

A top end set typically covers what needs replacing when the cylinder head comes off, e.g. head, valve cover and manifold gaskets. A bottom end set typically covers the lower part of the engine. The exact contents depend on the set.

Do I need to choose the head gasket thickness myself?

With some sets, yes. The thickness affects the compression ratio and the clearance between piston and cylinder head. If the block or head has been decked, or the engine has been overbored, thickness and bore size should be calculated for your specific project.

Can I reuse the old gaskets?

It is typically not recommended. Used gaskets are compressed and rarely seal as well again, especially head gaskets. Many engines also use torque-to-yield bolts, so check the manufacturer's instructions for your engine.