Equivalent exhaust manifold gaskets??

[rjaffey]

I have a '94 GSR (B18C1) for which I need a new exhaust manifold gasket. I purchased a gasket for a '99 Si (B16A) as a replacement, but when I compare them, I see that they're different. Although they appear the same in all the obvious dimensions, the original one from my GSR consists of two layers of metal, while the Si gasket is just one layer of the same material. This makes the Si gasket half as thick.

Does a later model GSR use a single layer gasket like the Si? Would I get a double layer gasket like my original if I were to buy a new one for a '94 GSR or would it consist of a single layer like the one for the Si?

[BoostedEX]

When I bought the B16 (92 model) we used a dual layer gasket on it. I'm still using the same dual layer gasket on my new setup. I don't see any reason why it would hurt anything.....

[rjaffey]

I'm concerned about the reverse. Is there any reason why using the thinner single layer gasket on my GSR would make a difference, since the original gasket is the thicker double layer one?

[Holden]

Rafe: Sorry I have no help with the gasket, but I have to ask... How's your car running?

You've been at 9psi for three years now, right?

[JRCivic]

Rafe,

I choose the double layer gasket from the '94-95 GSR for ALL of my "B" series projects. Like the OE headgasket, I believe the multi-layer gasket provides a greater tolerance for inconsistencies in the trueness of the exhaust flange without allowing an actual exhaust leak. All of the aftermarket single layer gaskets I have experienced, especially the copper ones, have succumbed to leaking.

[rjaffey]

Greg,

The car's holding up just fine... Then again I don't get to drive it as much as I'd like, so I'm not logging a lot of miles. I'd say I've been running the 9 - 10 psi setup for about 2 1/2 years now.

Jim,

I can't be certain as I don't have both gaskets in hand just now (one's on the car), but when I had them both to look at, it appeared that the two layer gasket was essentially the same as two of the one piece gaskets fastened together. Because the gasket material is not compressable and the ridge on one layer fits nicely into the second, I see no advantage to using the two layer gasket over the one layer to compensate for uneven mating surfaces.

I am, however, still curious as to whether Honda switched to the single layer gasket in the more recent B18C1s or if it's just used on the late model B16A.

Thanks for the responses.