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

[Nogoodwithusernames]

Some various ponderings on this topic.

-So we have various options of copper gaskets and aluminum gaskets for a lot of automotive applications. What is the difference between using a separate copper head gasket or using the aluminum head as its own gasket? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/idea.gif)

-The T1 doesn't use a head gaskets, the T4 cylinder to head connection is basically identical. Why does one require a gasket and not the other?

-Why can't my local auto machine shop cut heads flat? Sure you might get someone being lazy on a Friday afternoon, but can I not measure them and verify prior to assembly that everything is as it should be?

-Also nobody has said what the actual differences are between the engines in the bulletin and those not mentioned?

Not to stir the pot or anything (IMG:style_emoticons/default/stirthepot.gif)

[930cabman]

Some various ponderings on this topic.

-So we have various options of copper gaskets and aluminum gaskets for a lot of automotive applications. What is the difference between using a separate copper head gasket or using the aluminum head as its own gasket? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/idea.gif)

-The T1 doesn't use a head gaskets, the T4 cylinder to head connection is basically identical. Why does one require a gasket and not the other?

-Why can't my local auto machine shop cut heads flat? Sure you might get someone being lazy on a Friday afternoon, but can I not measure them and verify prior to assembly that everything is as it should be?

-Also nobody has said what the actual differences are between the engines in the bulletin and those not mentioned?

Not to stir the pot or anything (IMG:style_emoticons/default/stirthepot.gif)

My last build (2056) I did not use head gaskets, but I did make a trial assembly of the cast iron cylinders/heads with a small 1/2" long piece of Plastigage at quarter points of the sealing surface. Tourqued everything together and then broke it down and noted the readings of the Plastigage. This was what I had available, and I feel this gives a reasonably accurate picture of the joint. Two years and 7,000 miles later all is good

Cost= almost zero and a decent level of accuracy