Head gaskets and saver shims

I'm in the process of doing my head, my new unbranded mls head gasket and saver shim came today but i've been advised not use the head saver shim as they dont work and can leak as theres now two surfaces, so should i use the saver shim or not.

I'm now thinking of getting a branded freelander head gasket, are victor reinz a good head gasket for use on the freelander, anyone have any experience with victor reinz.

I've been told victor reinz do a head gasket with the head saver shim all bonded into one and this is the next generation, is this true.

So what should i plump for as i only want do the job once.

I'm guessing you have the K series 1.8 petrol motor. Then yes I have some recent experience of HGs. First up I'd check the head and the block face carefully. Check that head for hardness / porosity and that it's straight. All good? Then examine the block face. Use a steel ruler and feeler gauges to check the liners' height. It's this area that will determine which type of HG to fit.

If all liners protrude above the block face and are relatively even, then a MLS HG. If they are uneven and/or level with the block carefully consider a elastopolymer gasket. There are newer types of them available which apparently perform better than the original. I fitted one recently when my new MLS leaked from start-up! A fire ring failed to crush down as designed. My liners are uneven and only one was above the block face. Nodge recommended I use a newer elastompolymer type. I purchased a Payen BW750. Very easy to fit and all seems well.

Re part brands, purchase from reputable suppliers and they will stand by what they sell. You may like to consider a LZ forum sponsor! My supplier refunded me for the failed MLS HG. OEM is recommended as is genuine LR parts.

PS: don't forget new heat bolts - two types available: newer spec ones for the MLS HG - st'd ones are good for the elastopolymer.

A correct procedure of fitting a cylinder head gaskets
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a08-Yy3wbTI&index=3&list=LLyVOUbc_ucOZtuKJkkogyeA