Copper head gasket for Dinan M88/3

[JoeLoco]

I have a 1984 M635csi, with the entire Dinan turbo package (stage 3). I'm planning to spin a new timing chain and replace all the rails/tensioners. Logic says do the valve guides/inspect heads while I'm in there.

Here's my conundrum:

I've read posts by Ken H around here stating the e28/e24 Dinan M turbo cars had copper head gaskets, and were cut for O-rings. I'm not scared of the O-rings, but when I call Dinan for a replacement gasket, I might as well be trying to order a custom submarine periscope from them. They seem lost without their founder. Hell, I even gave them the part number, and they tried telling me to use an E34 M5 gasket.

Where can one source a copper head gasket for the m88? A race builder I know says it can be reused if removed properly, but I'm squeemish about that idea, since any leaks will involve another tear-down, which is extremely detailed on the turbo cars.

I'd love anyone who knows the Dinan cars to chime-in. I'd like to get this process underway ASAP.

[m-racer]

I will check with the shop I use. The owner races an E30 M3 and seems to have a plethora of unusual resources. I also think I have a documented process of the conversion to a duplex chain in my former Euro M5 if you are thinking of going that way. I will check when I get home next week.

[JoeLoco]

I will check with the shop I use. The owner races an E30 M3 and seems to have a plethora of unusual resources. I also think I have a documented process of the conversion to a duplex chain in my former Euro M5 if you are thinking of going that way. I will check when I get home next week.

That would be a HUGE help! I spoke with a shop in New Hampshire about the conversion, as I thought maybe they could pull it off without pulling the cam box or heads. (Mario is the owner's name, and he's posted here a bit.)

The heads will need to come off, so all bets are off now.

[JoeLoco]

Any updates? I'm about to crack-into this monster, and I'd love to have all the parts before I start.

[marc79euro645]

If you are cut for orings that will help with any gasket. I replaced 6 hg in 6months,(my lack of tuning skills to blame) became way too good at it. I go with the m5. The long head can be tough to seal,especially when boosting hard. Mine has a slight oil leak on the intake side,but continues to seal otherwise.
good luck