Graphite Engine Head Gasket 12251P8AA01 for Acura Coupe MDX 3.2L J30A1 Honda Shuttle 3.5L J30A2

Reference Nummer
12251-P8A-A01, 12251-P8C-A01, CH4503, J1254053, AG9170, 61-53725-00


Applicable Models

ACURA CL Coupe 3.0L Vtec J30A1

Honda Accord VI Coupe (CG) 3.0L Vtec J30A2

The definition of head gasket

One of the most critical parts of an engine is the head gasket set. Because it is directly involved in the connection between the engine block and cylinder heads, its function is critical to the proper operation of the engine. Generally speaking, head gasket set refers to a composition of gaskets and seals, such as cylinder head gasket, In./Ex. manifold gaskets, valve cover gasket sets, camshaft oil seals, valve stem seals, o-rings, miscellaneous packing/gaskets and so on. It sits between the engine block and cylinder head(s) in the internal combustion engine. It is used to seal the cylinders to ensure maximum compression and avoid leakage of coolant or engine oil into the cylinders. The quality of head gasket set, together with related parts, plays an important role to guarantee the performance as well as function of the modern engines.

The material of head gasket

Various materials are used to produce head gasket, main part of head gasket set, the first kind is MLS or Multiple Layers Steel – Most modern head engines are produced with MLS gaskets. These typically consist of three layers of steel. The contact faces are usually coated with a rubber-like coating such as Viton that adheres to the cylinder block and cylinder head while the thicker center layer is left bare, the second kind is Solid copper – a solid sheet of copper, and typically requires special machining called 'o-ringing' that places a piece of wire around the circumference of the cylinder to bite into the copper. When this is performed copper gaskets are extremely durable. Recently companies have started producing copper gaskets with integral sealing wires permitting their retrofit into engines without the removal of the engine block for machine work, the third kind is Composite – an older technology. Typically these are made from asbestos or graphite but are more prone to blowouts than newer gaskets. Asbestos gaskets are becoming increasingly rare due to health concerns, the fourth kind is Elastomeric – a gasket type used by Rover on their K Series engines. It utilised a steel core plate with molded in place silicone rubber beads to seal oil and coolant passages. The bores were sealed by rolled steel fire rings in a more conventional manner. The idea behind the gasket design was to produce a production version of the technology used in F1 engines at the time. The original application of the gasket on the smaller versions of the K Series was very successful. However, an engine redesign resulted in persistent problems with the design – the joint interface became unstable and the gasket could not cope.

Maintenance of head gasket

Head gasket can fail due to age and miles, or as a result of overheating. Telltale signs include rough initial engine operation when cold, overheating, white exhaust smoke (not to be confused with simple engine vapor in cold weather) or the presence of oil in engine coolant. Coolant leaking into the cylinders can damage the engine and destroy the catalytic converter, at a substantial cost. So it is important to mount in a right way and maintain properly. What's more, the most fundamental thing is to buy high-quality head gasket.

Maojia Industy’s cylinder head gasket advantages

Our performance in gasket manufacturing has given us a good name in the aftermarket. With a large range available, we are proud to provide our customers with references that fit major automotive manufacturers. In addition to gaskets, we also supply oil seals, valve cover gaskets and manifold gaskets to meet customers’ demands.

Our head gasket is just what you need to keep your car in good condition. The gaskets iuncluded in this kit are high quality gaskets that the dealers and rebuilding shops use everyday. These gaskets are designed for the professional installer. It does not come with any installation instructions. If you do not have a service manual, please consult a professional mechanic prior to installing this set. Please refer to the listing pictures or ask the sales for an accurate description of the parts included in the set.