• BMW M42 M44 Cometic Steel Head Gasket and ARP2000 Head Stud Kit
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5150 AutoSport

5150 AutoSport Head Gasket & Head Stud Kit, BMW M40/M42/M43/M44

5150 AutoSport Head Gasket & Head Stud Kit, BMW M40/M42/M43/M44

$434.98 USD
$434.98 USD
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Head Gasket Type - Bore - Thickness
Head Stud Kit

MLS Head Gasket:

This Cometic MLS Head Gasket is specifically engineered to replace BMW part # 11121721546, 11121721547, 11121721550, 11121721551 for the M40B16, M40B18, M42 B18, or M44 B19 engine.

Multi-Layer Steel also known as "MLS" head gaskets are preferred as an aftermarket alternative for high-performance BMW engines, including supercharged and turbocharged models, as they offer better performance than factory gaskets.

The M40 and M42 factory head gasket specifications are 84mm Bore with a thickness of 0.070 inches.

The M43 and M44 factory head gasket specifications are 85mm Bore with a thickness of 0.070 inches.

MLS Gaskets provide maximum sealing performance for high-output engines, without the need for sealants. These gaskets resist shearing forces and reduce bore distortion with their embossing design.

Comprised of multiple layers of stainless steel, they are durable and corrosion-resistant. Ideal for high-performance engines, MLS head gaskets offer superior sealing and can withstand high levels of heat and pressure.

When choosing an MLS gasket for your BMW, ensure compatibility, thickness, and bore size, and follow installation and torque specifications to avoid engine damage.

MLS head gaskets can NOT be used with motors that have O-rings or receiver grooves around the cylinder bores because they require smooth and flat surfaces to seal.

MLS Installation Instructions:

  1. Make sure that the engine block and cylinder head surfaces are clean, flat, and free from any debris, oil, or coolant.

  2. Install the MLS gasket on the engine block and ensure that it is properly aligned. Avoid twisting or bending the gasket during installation.

  3. Place the cylinder head on top of the gasket and install the head bolts or studs in their correct positions.

  4. Follow the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications and tighten the bolts or studs in the proper sequence to ensure even clamping force across the gasket.

  5. After the initial tightening, re-torque the head bolts or studs after the engine has been started and then allowed to cool to room temperature. This will ensure that the gasket is properly seated and compressed.

  6. It is recommended to not use any additional sealant on the MLS gasket, as it is already coated with a Viton rubber sealant. Using additional sealant can hinder the performance of the gasket.

Head Stud Kit

Upgrade your BMW M40, M42, M43 or M44 engine with the ARP Head Stud Kit, designed specifically for E36 and Z chassis. 

ARP provides an elevated driving experience with increased clamping force, improved head gasket sealing, and enhanced overall engine strength. This is made possible by the use of ARP 2000, a high-strength alloy steel material that is utilized in the production of fasteners such as bolts, studs, and nuts. Developed in-house by Automotive Racing Products, ARP 2000 is engineered to endure extreme loads and stresses that are often encountered in high-performance engines.

Head Stud Kit Installation Instructions: 

1. To ensure proper thread engagement and accurate torque readings, clean ALL threads in the block. Chase if necessary with ARP Thread Chaser.
2. Clean and inspect all hardware prior to installation. Look for obvious defects or shipping damages, plus proper fit, length and dimension.
3. If the cylinder head studs protrude into a water jacket, lubricate the block threads of the studs with ARP THREAD SEALER.
4. Screw studs into the block “HAND TIGHT ONLY”.
5. Install the cylinder head(s) and check for binding or misalignment.
6. Lubricate the stud threads, nuts and washers with ARP ULTRA-TORQUE FASTENER ASSEMBLY LUBRICANT.
Then install the washers and the nuts onto the studs and tighten them hand tight.
ARP recommends using the ARP ULTRA-TORQUE FASTENER ASSEMBLY LUBRICANT that is provided with each kit as opposed to motor oil. This is due to higher friction on the studs as well as inconsistencies in the clamping force of the fasteners when motor oil or other low quality lubricants are used.

PRELOAD (TORQUE) RECOMMENDATIONS

7. Following the manufacturers recommended torque sequence tighten the nuts steps 1-3

Step 1: Tighten to 25 ft-lbs.
Step 2: Tighten to 50 ft-lbs.
Step 3: Tighten to 75 ft-lbs.

with ARP Ultra-Torque fastener assembly lubricant

Bolt Torque Sequence

7 3 1 5
 9
10 6 2 4 8

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