With the head almost finished being rebuilt by GC, I need to get myself a new head gasket. Previously I had been using the Spesso with separate fire rings, but it seems this doesn't exist anymore (spoken to the UK agent) so my choices are somewhat limited now.

I know there is Cometic, but I can't remember if I read on a different forum that someone had a problem with it and I'd rather not be bitten again by this bloody engine

I use Cometic MLS gaskets in most of the performance engine builds I do, including in my own 16VT. I always recommend them for 16VT builds. MLS gaskets are the only type I offer for uprated 16VT engines because, IMO, there's no need for any other type! No need for special machining for fire rings, etc, just make sure both the head and block are faced flat to 50 RA smoothness.

BTW, how come you needed to have the head rebuilt?

Also, when you had the engine built the first time round was the block face machined with recesses to fit the fire rings, or were the fire rings the type that didn't need special machining?

You don't obviously read coupe chat then linky

No block or head machining for the fire ring, the Spesso gasket is crush type ring. GC commented that he only needed to take 0.006" off the head to clear the ring marks.

You're right, I don't read much on the forum these days!

Good to know you're rebuilding instead of breaking. 16VTs are rare enough already.

That's good because both mating surfaces need to be completely flat.

I'm assuming you've tried Trevor (http://www.nyssaracing.com/index.php)? Or is he the official UK agent you spoke to?

Yep, spoken to Trevor

I didnt have problem with Cometic on medium modified 16vt, but have on cosworth engine. Then we deeper inspect in headgasket design. And i will never use cometic again, it simply cannot work on hi-power application(say 500bhp+ on 2ltr 4cyl).
But hold more than OEM 16vt gasket, yes.

Also uk deltaparts sells 1.9mm version as stock thickness, which is bit confusing as oem is 1.6-1.7mm (=you will lost little bit of power just by this replacement)

Begbie did you manage to find the spesso gasket?
Ill be needing one soon and can't find then either

I did manage to get one. I got it from Tanc Barrett - Link to it here http://www.deltaintegrale.com/details.php?Clv=3&C1=2&C2=2&id=1663

Thanks Begbie!

Just for reference, Spesso have started supply of the "rings" gasket" again after a break of a few years, so drop me an email (trevor@nyssa.ltd.uk) when you need one

Thanks Nyssa. Purchsed one a few days ago. Ive got your email as ill possibly will be needing one in the next few months.

Thanks!