Anneal a new gasket

[G3L1946]

Hi,

Just to confirm……is it necessary to anneal a brand new copper cylinder head gasket? Read various
comments but still unsure. Is it necessary or advisable to use a sealing compound with copper gaskets? I would thought not, but I’m no expert! Hence, the question!
Part obtained from club shop.

Regards ,

Steve

[SPRIDDLER]

Always anneal a copper gasket because all copper age-hardens. Years ago I worked briefly at the trade counter of a plumber's merchants and most plumbers wouldn't accept dull-looking copper pipe for that reason.
I've never used sealant on any copper gaskets.

I anneal mine in Mole grips on a gas ring to cherry red, taking a new grip so that the bit previously clamped in the jaws gets annealed. You don't have to dunk it in a dish of water after but it does shock off some of the contamination.

Head gasket heating in pliers (640x427).jpg

Head gasket cooling (640x480).jpg

[G3L1946]

Hi Spriddler,

You’re probably getting fed up with my questions this week! I hope not ! It’s all part of one job that I have little experience with. Thank you, you confirmed my thoughts on sealants and advice on annealing.

Regards,

Steve

[SPRIDDLER]

Relax, it really is a pleasure. I haven't been able to fettle much for the past 13 years one-handed but I can at least use a keyboard in place of spanners. It eases my frustration to be able to pass on my 50 years of old bike experience and knowledge gained from numerous other elders, for some of whom (RIP) their expertise is their legacy.

[G3L1946]

Thanks mate, much appreciate all the advice you provide.
My hands are a bit naff now due to arthritis that flares up now and again, but as they say, old age doesn’t come alone!

Cheers for now,

Steve

[G3L1946]

Variation on a theme. The Camping Gaz method!


Steve

[limeyrob]

100% agree re age hardening, and it happens quite quickly so its best to just always anneal before use. If you have an old gasket do some experiments, if you get it right the gasket will bend with the slightest of force. I have had the best seal reusing the old gasket and annealing, not sure why but perhaps the fit is better.
By the way, the camping stove method is much safer than the hob method, at least in terms of domestic calm