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Two Head Questions For the Price of One
Posted: Tue Oct 28, 2025 6:24 pm
by TillieTheTouring
1) The head on my '20 has a casting mark of 'P' for Prus. So does my '24. My '23 has a casting mark of 'X'. Is there any significance to this mark? 2) The head on the '23 also features a copper outlet gasket at the top where the outlet goes to the radiator. It looks like Snyders and Langs only feature paper gaskets for this. What was it originally? Is copper preferable? Where might I find a copper outlet gasket?
Re: Two Head Questions For the Price of One
Posted: Tue Oct 28, 2025 7:03 pm
by RajoRacer
Is the "X" steel or aluminum ? Copper clad gaskets were original - some of us still have a stash left !
Re: Two Head Questions For the Price of One
Posted: Tue Oct 28, 2025 7:32 pm
by big2bird
The water outlet gasket does not see pressure. Any decent gasket is fine.
Re: Two Head Questions For the Price of One
Posted: Tue Oct 28, 2025 8:12 pm
by TillieTheTouring
Rajo, I believe the head is cast iron. From what I was told about this car it has likely been on at least since the 70's and it may be a lot older. Markings include Made in USA and 'X' right where you would see a Z or a P. Could you be persuaded to part with a copper outlet gasket?
Re: Two Head Questions For the Price of One
Posted: Tue Oct 28, 2025 9:45 pm
by RajoRacer
The "X" is most likely a foundry mark/designation. I'll send you a note.
Re: Two Head Questions For the Price of One
Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2025 12:57 pm
by Steve Jelf
For the water outlet and inlet gasket try making your own:
1 On the head or block, apply a layer of Ultra Black
2 On the outlet or inlet, smear grease;
3 Tighten the bolts enough to flatten the Ultra Black;
4 Let it set up and cure;
5 Tighten the bolts.
If you remove and reinstall those parts later, apply only new grease.
I mention Ultra Black by name because it's what I use. Other sealants may work.
The Right Stuff is the wrong stuff for me because I'm slow and it sets up too fast.