Stock head gasket o-rings

[kansas-terry]

Mike: The current HD head gasket has been changed to a 99a, and the parts book doesnt show them, and the top end kit only includes 2 for the base dowels, the service manuals except the touring models still says to use them. We we tear down the 2004 up bikes the o-rings are not on the dowels, what is the word? Thanks Terry

[Mike]

Yes, H-D eleminated the O-rings and all head gaskets now do not use them. There may still be some gasket kits on shelves that have the earlier design and builders need to check which is in the kits. The base o-rings are still required but be sure to use the correct ones. They are different from the earlier head gasket o-rings but similar in appearance. Using the incorrect ones on the base will result in case damage.
Thanks, Mike