Turbo Build / Head Welding Question.

[E30Idea]

So here is the question and yes, I HAVE searched.

1. I am putting an "i" 885 head on an eta bottom end and boosting it.
2. I am using an MLS head gasket kit.
How important is it to weld the water channels on the head if I am using a MLS gasket?
I am not going too extreme with HP or turbo size. Just a mild build. I simply can’t find a shop at a decent price (in my area) to weld the head up. Any advise or personal experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance

- Ryan
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[nando]

it's just a good idea in general. the passages don't do anything for cooling, but they do cause the head to flex a lot around the gasket area which is why they fail. Imo, welded head + studs + stock HG is the best route, but you already have the MLS.

[E30Idea]

it's just a good idea in general. the passages don't do anything for cooling, but they do cause the head to flex a lot around the gasket area which is why they fail. Imo, welded head + studs + stock HG is the best route, but you already have the MLS.

Thanks nando! Yea, I bought MB bolts and I got a great deal on this MLS kit... thats the big reason I went this route. Its not too late to go the other way but I figured that with low boost I would be ok. Who knows

Can anyone else chime in?

[wagonizzle]

Check the FI forum at e30tech; those guys know their stuff. From what I understand, under a bar of boost, you shouldn't have problems. While it can't hurt to get it done, it may not be necessary given your projected boost levels.

[nando]

while that is true, my feeling is the only way to build a turbo motor is to overbuild it. if he knows somebody that can weld his head for him, I think his best choice would be to go ahead and do it, then he will never have to worry about it.

also - I really wouldn't suggest using metric blue "headbolts". they aren't really made to be a headbolt... I'd use the stock bolt over that, but preferrably studs.

[scaraveos]

Are saying about welding the head to the block? and if yes how is it seperated if required?

(possibly a stupid post)

[Jordan325iC]

Are saying about welding the head to the block? and if yes how is it seperated if required?

(possibly a stupid post)

Yes. It provides the ultimate seal. It never needs to be separated.

[scaraveos]

So if the head cracks you throw away the block too? And you can't bore or hone the block if needed.

[nando]

Are saying about welding the head to the block? and if yes how is it seperated if required?

(possibly a stupid post)

LOL

no, we mean welding the waterjackets on the head to make the head stronger. You can try welding it to the block but it's hard to weld aluminum to cast iron. ;)

[Jordan325iC]

I was just pulling your leg. You don't weld the head to the block, you just weld the head.

Here is a visual. You fill in the head with by welding:

To produce a head that looks like this (after decking):


The head casting doesn't match up with the block casting in that area (if you look at them side by side it is clear). This isn't a problem when NA, but it becomes a problem when boosting. Search e30tech for "welding head" for more info.