I need a new head gasket for my b16a. Should I buy one direct from Honda or buy an aftermarket one? How much do they cost for a good one. Do I order one for a b16a2? My block just says b16a? It's an imported jdm engine.

 

are you getting the head mill'd?
any b16 gasket will work
now if you want a little more power get a thinner gasket and get head mill'd
it will give you higher compression

 

get your head milled no matter what head gasket you get. They say that the head gaskets fix minor deformaties but you dont want to risk blowing another gasket and having to tear it apart again.

 

ya i dunno if i am gunna get it milled. i would like to. how much does that cost cuz im short on cash? generally speaking of course. should i get the complete head gasket kit/set?

 

just the head gasket will be fine... to get your head mill'd usually costs from 40-75$ depending on the shop if you can get the head broke down and ready to just be mill'd without them doing it .. then it will be cheaper for you... call some local engine machine shops and ask around for a price..

 

+1. You need to get it milled or your just going to be blowing money away. Even though you are limited in funds right now, you need to bite the bullet and get it done. Imagine how screwed you would be if you didn't get it milled and your head was deformed. Your new gasket wouldn't seal properly and would end up just going again. You'll be back to square 1 and more broke than before. Start hitting up buddies, see if they know anyone at a shop. When I first got my Hatch I got mine done for $25 with the homie hookup. =)

 

well if its around 100 bucks to get it milled thats no problem. i thought it was gunna be around 300. if its around 100 i will def get it done no matter what. wont i get a slightly high compression? how much should get milled?

 

How much that gets milled usually depends on the clearences all around. Its usually between .005" and .010" You wont really see any diffrence in performance until they start cutting into the .030" and up range.

 

300 is more like getting the head rebuilt... just take cam gear off and dizzy,valve cover
and take it to them

 

While you have it torn down, check the valves. Simply check for cracks and chips. Mine had a chip missing from it. Was why I use to blow smoke under hard acceleration. Also, check to make sure your valves close completely. This is done by putting the valve in the closed position, and putting fluid above the valve. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour. See if any fluid ended up on your work table. Some people use gas for this, others use lacquer thinner. Its whatever you see fit.