how to re-use copper headgasket?

[westcoaster]

Slap the headgasket in there and torque it down as is?

goop it up with silicone gasket maker then slap it in as is?

I saw one youtube video where the guy heat it up with a propane torch before reuse. (looks like it cooled before being placed)
What would the purpose of that be?

What prep to reuse the copper headgasket?

[Nudge]

I saw one youtube video where the guy heat it up with a propane torch before reuse. (looks like it cooled before being placed)
What would the purpose of that be?

Do this! Heating it up softens the copper.

You can put some silicone on the cylender side to help keep the water in.

[Oyster 49]

Yes, by heating up the copper gasket to cherry red then allowing it to cool you will anneal the copper and thus make it soft and pliable. As nudge has suggested a thin layer of gasket sealant will finish the job.

[westcoaster]

Thanks for the feedback.

I'll get that done as one of the small jobs.

I have now got it running. Video in the thread "found it in the river"