Can GM MLS head gaskets be reused?

[GeoffP]

Can GM's multi-layer steel head gaskets be reused? I'm 99% sure I didn't torque the lifter guide hold down bolts between one of the many interruptions I had today. Don't ask...it's what happens when you have a 2 yr old and an 8 yr old constantly asking, "What're you doing Daddy?" I'm thinking it might be better to buy new gaskets, pull the heads and verify but I would love to save the $35 plus shipping if I can.

Thanks!

[GeoffP]

Tore it back down and found one of the lifter guide hold down bolts completely loose...glad I checked it. No gasket material pulled loose from the head gaskets so I reused them. I'm sure I'll get a few comments saying I shouldn't have done it but I did - I'll report how it works out down the road.

[TT302Z28]

Just give it an extra couple lbs of torque...if it wasn't run or didn't sit for long should be find. Especially if the gaskets remained in the exact same spot.

[GeoffP]

Thanks - makes me feel a little better. It sat torqued maybe 4 hours. I think I torqued everything back to 71-72 ft-lbs.

[Chevy406]

.. I think I torqued everything back to 71-72 ft-lbs.

I hope you are using ARP bolts or studs and not the torque-to-yeild GM bolts?

[GeoffP]

Yep studs - I can't stand TTY bolts.

[censo69]

Everything I have ever heard about MLS is you can re-torque. I am counting on this as well as I half Tq the heads on to seal up the motor for mock up.

[damannhw]

You'll be fine. We re-use LS head gaskets on the engine dyno occassionally with no problems.... even after they have been run !