I plan to up the stock 496HO to 525hp naturally aspirated.

What would be the best head gasket for this?

Anyone?

I like to use the Cometic gaskets.

John S.

Cometic...
Those are included with the Raylar kit; Isn't that what your doing?
Dave

Dave,

Most likely but wanted to see if there is something better in head gaskets out there.

Thanks.

None better and you can increase your compression ratio and inprove your qwench with the variable thickness options available.
Dave

Dave,

how do you improve you quench?

When using the .027 gasket vs the .040 you in turn bring the head down closer to the deck reducing the qwench area. "Most" engines will have the pistons .015-.020 down in the hole from the deck at the top of the stroke. This coupled with the standard .040 gasket will give you a .060 qwench area which is not desireable for higher compressions and lower octane fuels. The target qwench area should be in the neighborhood of .040 on a high performance motor for best combustion efficiency.
Dave

Dave,

Thanks for the insight.

Why isn't the quench made standard at .040 instead of ~.060?