M20B20/B23 Head Gasket Options

[LemonHunter 583]

I've never replaced a head gasket with an OEM one, generally favor Cometic MLS or equivalent.

Seems that with BMW though oem or VR are perfectly fine?

I have a 'recent rebuilt' M20B23 with the gasket probably gone between 5 & 6. After only 7000km.

I don't think I'm going to turbo this engine ever, but i do like to give it the beans on the twisties.

Seeking suggestions for make, type & best place to shop.

[NVADER 54]

I've sent out a few texts today to get some prices for the B20 Cometic MLS gasket. The part number for the 0.070" thick one is C4393-070. Plenty of them on ebay for around the $300-$350 mark but I'll let you know if any of my contacts comes back cheaper.

[Kepes 231]

I replaced the head gasket on my B25.

VR didn't have fantastic reviews online. A lot of people saying it leaked oil down the block, sometimes so much that the gasket had to be replaced again.
I used a Goetze gasket. Seemed to be very high quality and has held up well after a year of having it installed.

Honestly I think with your intentions there really is no point in putting in a non OEM gasket. The OEM gaskets hold up just fine even with boost. (No first hand experience, however I've done a lot of research re turboing an E30)

fcpeuro.com seems really good for parts, I've only started using them recently.

If you want to use a local company, euro-italian is a forum sponsor. Also have heard good things about milland.co.nz

[LemonHunter 583]

I've had great experiences with FCPEuro also, but discovered after one purchase it pays to check locally first. With freight, one purchase was the same as buying locally, except locally I wouldn't have waited a week and a bit for delivery.

[eliongater 718]

Everything I've read has said to avoid victor reinz