Welding an aluminum head... [Archive]

TS1955

01-14-2011, 04:33 AM

I was asked the other day about welding an aluminum head. Yes, I know it can be done. But what about the entire deck surface if it has been cut alot. I'm not sure so I thought I would ask the Professionals.

TS1955

qiksix

01-14-2011, 06:09 AM

Yes it can be done I welded a few old 6cyl. Jag heads for restorers. Depending what it is might not be worth the $$ and trouble by the time spent and rehardening etc. if needed.

zipper06

01-14-2011, 09:55 AM

If you're talking like .050, you can get copper gaskets up to atleast .120 tk, this might be an option welding the entire deck surface wiuld be a lot of trouble and expensive.

JMO

Zip.

oldandtired

01-14-2011, 10:48 AM

If you're talking like .050, you can get copper gaskets up to atleast .120 tk, this might be an option welding the entire deck surface wiuld be a lot of trouble and expensive.

JMO

Zip.

Exactly correct. The Comstic MLS (multi layer steel) gaskets are exactly what you need. Just calculate your volumns and play with gasket thickness to get the CR you want.

kwkracing

01-14-2011, 08:32 PM

We repair aluminum heads all the time, i dont understand what exactly you are asking for?

TS1955

01-15-2011, 06:58 AM

We repair aluminum heads all the time, i dont understand what exactly you are asking for?

The question is...Can the deck surface of an aluminum head be welded back up after being cut several times?

TS1955

TS1955

01-15-2011, 07:01 AM

If you're talking like .050, you can get copper gaskets up to atleast .120 tk, this might be an option welding the entire deck surface wiuld be a lot of trouble and expensive.

JMO

Zip.

Exactly correct. The Comstic MLS (multi layer steel) gaskets are exactly what you need. Just calculate your volumns and play with gasket thickness to get the CR you want.

I know you can use a thicker gasket, but I was just curious if welding that much of a head can be done successfully.

TS1955

fla1976

01-15-2011, 07:26 AM

It can be done. Some of the foreign restorers use the method to restore heads that are no longer available. It is a long and expensive process. A lot of manhours to build it up and then it is just milled to the original specs. The cometic gaskets will save you alot of money and will have the same performance. I have used cometic gaskets and they were recommended by an experienced builder that builds alot on nitrous engines. The main thing with them is that the head and block must be milled flat for best results. You can try this site:
http://www.aluminumheads.com/