LIM repair, Gasket Warning

[MadDIYmech]

I've done two LIM repairs, first on 98 Lumina w/60k, second on 97 Malibu w/153k. Both times I used the Felpro 'improved gasket' with the black rubber on steel. The malibu's owner let the 'small coolant leak' go too long & slightly overheated. Leakdown & comp tests indicated heads had to come off, so I ordered headset from 'online parts supplier'. Headset came with the SAME FAILED OEM LIM GASKET design, just different colored silicone. Parts supplier was clueless; Felpro explained that because 'GM didn't recall the gasket' they offer both OEM & an improved design. IN THIS EXAMPLE ONLY, 97 MALIBU, 3.1L, good headset is #HST9957PT-2 (Felpro). At Christmas time availability of the good headset was only a 2week wait, maybe it's better now?!! Plan your emergencies well!!