I have been having trouble getting my head gasket tight after rebuilding the Universal 5444. I have installed new liners, pistons, rings, head, etc and all appears OK, but the gasket leaks. The parts list shows a thin metal shim between the head gasket and block, and washers under the head bolts, but these were not on my engine when it was taken apart. I suspect that they were there for a reason.
I know that washers under the head bolts helps transfer more clamping force, for the amount of torque, due to less friction. The washers missing could result in the head not being clamped properly, as the manual would have supplied the torque requirement for washers.
The shim is more of a mystery to me. I have no problem putting one back, but is it just metal to metal with no sealant. Other shims in the fuel system required sealant, but were also under far less clamping force.
It puzzles me why the parts list shows things that aren't there. The engine worked when the boat was purchased, but it was simply worn out, and need the rebuild. I want to put it back together right.
Any help would be greatly appreciated. The boat must float this year, lol, the neighbours are viewing it as a lawn ornament.
BTW, I do know that you adjust the top clearance with the use of shims. My question is do some just not require one, period, or do they all have one and some more.
I finally got the gasket tight. After measuring the top clearance of the piston I found that this engine did not require the shim. These projects are quite the learning curve.