Can't search for 5.3L so I came up dry on this question.

I am getting ready to put a 5.3L back together (who knows what year - gen III). I called around and head gaskets for 2000 vs 2002 are drastically differently priced.

2002 - $51.23 each
2000 - $17.70 each

Is there a difference? Did they switch because they had issues? What is recommended? Obviously if I can save 30+ per head that would be great.

Thanks for the input.

 

I think I've read somewhere that the 2000 gaskets are Graphite, the 2002 gaskets are MLS.

 

99-01 heads had a notch in them if u was to use new style gasket they would leak water

99-01 were graphite gaskets not metal mls style

 

See the diff? you must run a graphite gasket if you have this notch
Metal MLS gasket will leak!

But if you can run the metal gaskets get the:
GM LS1 gaskets #12498544....i paid $34.00 at my local dealer

 

Is there a downside to running graphite (2000) gaskets on 2002 heads?

LS1's have a larger bore, that doesn't affect anything?

I am just looking for the cheapest ones that wont cause me problems.

 

the larger bore will not hurt anything
On the label next to the part number it says ls1/5.3 H.0.
GM uses that gasket on 08 and up 4.8/5.3
I also used this gasket when i did my head swap on my 5.3

as far as a down side to the graphite gaskets just cost
MLS are said to be a better gasket,quite a few turbo guys use stock mls gaskets and make really good power

 

Only down side to graphite is if you dont take care of the engine. I.e. change coolant regularly or Over heat the engine. They expand and contract more then an MLS. Sometimes the TTY bolts don't stay tight enough and you get a leak... At that point your done.... got to replace them. If you can run the MLS Do it!!! They hold up better in extreme enviornments.

 

Well I dont see why I would not take care of the engine, so maybe I'll go the cheaper route.

 

Are you sure they gave you the right price???

MLS gasket 4.8/5.3L 12575329 is $39.13 each

MLS gasket 5.3L HO 12589226 is $30.21 Each


SDPC had the 12589226 for $28.30 each.