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Parts

MG parts spares and accessories are available for MG T Series (TA, MG TB, MG TC, MG TD, MG TF), Magnette, MGA, Twin cam, MGB, MGBGT, MGC, MGC GT, MG Midget, Sprite and other MG models from British car spares company LBCarCo.

MG MGA - Head gasket

Is it the current state of thinking that the MGB steel composite head gasket, Payen? is to be preferred to the old type copper gasket? Its likely that the MGB gasket will be a touch larger than the MGA gasket so does this give any problems?
J H Cole

I use the head gasket for late model MGB (1975-1980). This is the black composite gasket with metal rings around water and oil holes. I have never heard of one of these failing unless there was something dramatically wrong with block or head). This gasket will fit all Austin B-series from the early 50's on, except Twin Cam or hugely overbored (1950cc) engines.
Barney Gaylord

Thanks Barney, I've talked to Moss UK with your description and I think its a Payen under part No AJM 377 and as you say its black with metal rings and with some orange on the rings. Do you use any gasket seal - I know theres been a lot said on this but in reading the archives its still difficult to come to a conclusion.
J H Cole

No sealer for a head gasket. If a head gasket does not seal without anything added, there is something seriously wrong with the mating surfaces. I have never heard of the Payen black gasket leaking.
Barney Gaylord

This thread was discussed between 09/07/2008 and 12/07/2008

MG MGA index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG MGA BBS is active now.