So.... I bought a 96 evo for a build, and have found that there are 2 base gaskets under the jugs???? One is beaded and the one on top is a plain paper gasket. Can anyone tell me why someone would do this instead of a single gasket?
Also, thinking about using a cometic rubber base gasket... Anyone have experience with these? Worth it?

 

PO was an idiot???
At least that's my guess.

As for what gaskets to use I like Cometic or James steel gaskets.
A friend of mine had his motor rebuilt by a shop and it was seeping from day one.
About a year or two later we went back in and using Cometic steel gaskets the seep went away.

 

Base gaskets on evo's are a known leak point.

 

I can tell you it would affect deck clearance, piston valve clearance, and compression.

 

I've used James Metal Gaskets on my rebuilds and have had no problems ... but what ever you use, only one gasket is necessary ...

 

I was thinking along the same lines!

 

Absolutely... someone probably Knew they needed clearance... but didn't know about Thicker Gasket Availability or even Stroker Plates!!!!
Go with any old Base Gasket, and/or Head gasket, and risk piston to head/valve Contact!!!

Learn to "clay" the piston Clearance!!!

 

Wait.... It's a stock motor other than a new cam. Why would you be worried about "piston to head/valve contact?"

 

EVO's love a bit of heat in the kitchen before taking off ... Give 'em a few seconds to warm up and feel the love ... Your gaskets will return the favor

 

Really??? You bought it New!!!
More than one person did not take Larry's advice
and popped a head Gasket,,, then rode with a Blown head gasket till they Flame Cut the Gasket Surfaces...
No Problem... just mill some off the head and probably Both ends of the jugs, and Go right??