A friend at home asked me tonight which way the composite gasket on his M20 should be installed

There's a joint on one side - so does this face up or down

I can't remember sorry

Job

email (option): Jonnyob1@googlemail.com

Tell your friend he should throw that away and invest in one of my solid copper head gaskets, you know it makes sense.

Regards TTJohn

email (option): Jomichael@aol.com

The composite gaskets should be fitted 'seam' side upwards...However, I wouldn't recommend using one either. Modern replacements are unpredictable and don't work as well as the originals, now the asbestos has been replaced with cardboard or similar. (for our own safety.)
Fit an annealed solid copper gasket for an easy life...Ian

email (option): ian@wright52.plus.com

if a copper gasket that been on for ages should it need re annealed before re fitting

email (option): roger.beck@node6.com

Hi Roger..Yes, heat carefully to red and quench immediately in cold water...Ian

email (option): ian@wright52.plus.com

Hi Ian

Thanks for that, he needs it for a run this week, I just couldn't remember which way

John you are right, a solid gasket is the way, I have given your details, so it's down to him now,

My solid one goes on this weekend !!

Job

email (option): Jonnyob1@googlemail.com