2.0 Head Gasket delete? Options

[torakki]

I've read where it's a good idea to remove the head gaskets and re-assemble without them. Something about, they crush and cause an issue. Is there anything else you need to do or change, in their place? Like a different head design?
Thanks

[thomasotten]

Not wanting to enter a debate that clearly needs an Ecumenical Council to resolve, I would point out the following:

The document, written in 1990 is stating that these changes have been introduced as improvements to their remanufactured engine program. "The following improvements have been introduced as of remanufactured Engine number 89000". It is information applicable to a certain year range of Vanagons, but is silent on all other models. This doesn't mean that it is not applicable to other models with type 4 engines. But generally, it is not wise to offer recommendations on changes to other complex systems unless you are reasonably sure that the changes won't have some other effect not considered. Also, do we even know if, in 1990, there was a remanufactured 914 engine program?

I would not say that this bulletin was meant for all type 4 engines, but only for their remanufactured engines. That does not mean, however, that the changes may not be applicable to your particular engine.