Rep Power: 762

I've been hearing about removing 1 of the 3 layers of an OEM head gasket to get more compression. Does it matter which layer you remove? I would think it would be the middle. How much shorter is the modified gasket's life span?

 
Rep Power: 765

happy bday buddy, and as far as your post goes, i would be careful yanking that middle layer out, as there is 3 layers for a reason eh, and the compression you would be gain would be very minimal, easily offset by the chance of the gasket failing prematurely, the layers aren't very thick at all, the middle layer acts as the sealing layer, as the head is compressed, the middle layer is sandwhiched in between the top and bottom, take that out and you have a dramatically weaker gasket.

 
Rep Power: 786

just buy an aftermarket thinner gasket. might be pricey tho

 
Rep Power: 802

If you are doing a headgasket just get an oem and have the head decked before installing.

 
Rep Power: 804

thats the best suggestion, messing with a gasket isnt a good idea.