BC8206 – Brian Crower Honda K24 Head Gasket (87mm Bore, 0.8mm)

In the realm of high-performance Honda K-series engine building, the cylinder head gasket is not a mere seal; it is a fundamental component of the combustion chamber structure and a critical determinant of thermal management and compression ratio. The BC8206 from Brian Crower represents the culmination of precision Japanese manufacturing and motorsport-grade material science, engineered explicitly for the Honda K24 engine platform with an 87mm bore. Designed for builders seeking uncompromising reliability and exacting specifications in forced induction, high-compression NA, or endurance racing applications, this 0.8mm thick MLS (Multi-Layer Steel) gasket is a cornerstone for any serious performance build. It transcends the role of a standard replacement part, acting as a calculated upgrade that provides a predictable, non-compressible sealing solution where factory or inferior aftermarket gaskets are prone to failure under extreme cylinder pressures and thermal loads.

Engineering & Material Superiority

Brian Crower’s “BC Made In Japan” Head Gaskets are distinguished by their meticulous construction. The BC8206 Honda K24 head gasket utilizes a precision-stamped 301 stainless steel core, flanked by specialty-coated functional layers. This MLS design provides several critical advantages over composite or single-layer gaskets. First, the stainless steel layers offer near-zero compressibility, ensuring that the installed thickness and, consequently, the quench height and compression ratio remain absolutely consistent and unchanged even under the most severe operating conditions. Second, the proprietary viton rubber coating applied to the outer layers flows microscopically into the machining imperfections of the head and block deck surfaces during torque-down, creating a custom, superior seal for both combustion gases and coolant passages. This coating is resistant to fuel, oil, and coolant, preventing degradation over time—a common failure point in high-heat environments.

Precision for Performance & Reliability

The specified 0.8mm compressed thickness of the BC8206 is a key performance parameter. This dimension is crucial for builders fine-tuning their engine’s static compression ratio and quench area. A thinner, non-compressible gasket like this allows for a tighter piston-to-head clearance, promoting more efficient combustion and improved resistance to detonation—a vital consideration for both high-RPM naturally aspirated and boosted engines. The exact 87mm bore size is laser-cut to provide a perfect match for over-bored cylinders, eliminating any overhang that could create a hot spot or disrupt flame front propagation, while ensuring robust sealing around the entire cylinder circumference.

Key Benefits & Applications

Choosing the Brian Crower BC8206 head gasket is a decision that impacts nearly every aspect of engine performance and durability. It is the definitive choice for engines that see sustained high load, whether on the track, strip, or street.

• Motorsport-Proven MLS Construction: Multi-layer steel design ensures no compressibility, guaranteeing consistent deck height and sealing integrity under extreme cylinder pressure.
• Optimal Thermal & Chemical Resistance: High-grade stainless steel and advanced coating withstand blistering EGTs and resist degradation from modern fuels and coolants.
• Precision Tuning Tool: The certified 0.8mm thickness allows accurate calculation and adjustment of compression ratio and quench clearance for optimized power and detonation margin.
• Perfect for Modified Engines: Essential for builds utilizing forced induction (turbo/supercharger), high-compression pistons, aggressive camshafts, or nitrous oxide.
• Superior Sealing Technology: The coated layers conform to surface micro-imperfections, creating a far more reliable seal than rigid gaskets on imperfect decks.
• Manufacturing Consistency: Being “BC Made In Japan” guarantees exceptional quality control, dimensional accuracy, and material consistency from one gasket to the next.

Technical Specifications

The following table details the exact specifications of the BC8206 head gasket. These figures are non-negotiable for proper engine assembly and blueprinting.

Vehicle Fitment & Compatibility

The BC8206 is engineered for the Honda K24 engine family. Proper fitment requires that the engine block and cylinder head have been machined to a smooth, flat finish (typically a RA surface finish of 50 micro-inches or better is recommended for MLS gaskets). It is compatible with both OEM and aftermarket cylinder heads and blocks, provided the bore diameter is at or very near 87mm. Critical applications include:

• Honda K24A2: Found in 2002-2008 Acura RSX Type-S, 2004-2008 TSX, and others.
• Honda K24A3/A4/A8: Applications in CR-V, Element, and Accord models.
• Honda K24Z Series Engines: Including the K24Z3 from later model Acura TSX and Honda Accord.
• Performance & Swap Applications: Ideal for K24 swaps into Honda S2000, Civic, Integra, and for all-out race builds utilizing K24 blocks, including those paired with K20 cylinder heads. It is mandatory for engines that have been decked the block or head, or are using pistons designed for a specific quench clearance.

Note: Always verify the final bore diameter of your block after any machining or over-sizing. This 87mm bore gasket is also suitable for standard bore K24 blocks (87mm) and is the correct choice for a common first overbore of 0.5mm (87.5mm). For a deeper dive into K24 engine building techniques and sealing challenges, refer to this authoritative resource on modern engine sealing principles at Engine Builder Magazine.

Installation Protocol & Final Notes

Installation of the BC8206 head gasket demands precision. The deck surfaces of both the block and cylinder head must be meticulously cleaned, inspected for flatness (within 0.001″ per foot is ideal), and free of any scratches or gouges. Do not use any additional sealants or sprays on this MLS gasket, as the integrated coating is designed to seal on its own. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque sequence and torque-to-yield specifications for your specific head bolts or studs (ARP studs are highly recommended for performance applications). A proper break-in procedure, avoiding excessive load until the engine is at full operating temperature, allows the coating to settle completely. By selecting the BC8206, you are not just installing a gasket; you are integrating a core component engineered to uphold the integrity of your most demanding Honda K24 performance build.