Finally getting the head done soon on the Ef i6 Mont
I have read that the au head gaskets raise compression due to the thickness ( I want that), now when I do the gasket I want to get new head bolts too.......
Looking on ebay I can get an au vrs for around $110 and head bolts for around $40, but there are vrs kits designed for eb through to au with bolts new for around $120, but I dont know if the eb to au head gaskets going the have the thinner thickness head gasket. What thickness am I looking at for the head gasket and does anyone know what ebayers are selling the thin au head gasket vrs kits with head bolts to suit?
Also, whats a decent radiator selling on ebay? I remember there was one for $190 that I was recommended to buy from SWC... but I cannot find it anymore.
Lastly, I can get a Gates water pump off ebay for $63 delivered, but I can also get a no named one for $36 and both have the same warranty. Is it worth going the gates for the name of are the cheapo water pumps any good?
Since Im not working right now I need to watch the cash, so any advise on best buys on a raditor, water pump and au vrs/ bolts would be appreciated. Hopefully the fordmodder who have been though this can shed some light on what to stay away from and the best buys.
Cheers
Raven

Go to ford and get the au head gasket it's $95 . U can get head bolts from ford but they are like $15 ea

I just went to my local parts supplier and got a set for $35 .

I did my head gasket just over a year ago . Still fine , no leaks .

Remember to use the au head gasket bolt tension and sequence .

It's 30nm then 120 degrees someone else can confirm it , not 100% sure as I've forgotten .

I paid $60 odd for my last MLS gasket, but every ford dealerships different.
Bolts will be 30-40 for a set, and the torque specs will come with them, but 30nm and 120* sounds pretty close.

VRS kits come with more s**t than you'll need, however you'll want new inlet & exh gaskets as well as rocker, t-stat housing and the rubber timing cover to head seal.

I bought a cheapy water pump, GWS? brand I think, same as what 3 of the local auto parts stores stock so they can't be all bad. Cost me $30, stores wanted 50-60 for one and an extra 5-10 for a gates.

Hey guys, bit annoyed called the local binks ford parts supplier and the lady ( not the nicest person )
quoted me

AU MLS ER 6051 A - $116.55
HEAD BOLTS AU 6065 A - $6.60 ea.

Get the bolts some where else , try another Ford dealer for the gasket .

I think that's the going rate unfortunately...last MLS gasket price I got quoted was $95 or something. $5 for head bolts each.

Ultimate Motor Group (Ford) in Mt Maunganui, NZ wants $400 for an mls gasket!!! I'm sure they have a 100% markup on there kit.

One of the turbo guys out here bought one of these radiators.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/car-parts-accessories/ford/radiators/auction-512311071.htm

He had to make some minor mods to get the fans on but reckoned it made a huge difference.
It's an NZ site so it would cost you less due tyo exchange rate, and this seller is in aussy.