Cometic C4188-030 MLS Head Gasket for Honda B16, B17 & B18C VTEC Engines
Build your Honda B-series engine with confidence using the Cometic C4188-030 Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) Cylinder Head Gasket. Engineered for performance enthusiasts, this premium head gasket features an 84mm bore, .030-inch compressed thickness, and three-layer stainless steel construction for compatible Honda DOHC VTEC engine combinations.
Whether you’re assembling a big-bore B18C, rebuilding a modified Acura Integra GS-R, or preparing a Honda B-series VTEC engine for increased cylinder pressure, choosing the correct head gasket is essential for maintaining combustion sealing and engine reliability.
The Cometic C4188-030 features embossed stainless steel outer layers coated with a Viton-based fluoroelastomer material, designed to maintain sealing pressure under demanding engine operating conditions. Its uncoated stainless steel center layer helps establish precise compressed thickness.
Important: The 84mm gasket opening makes this product particularly relevant to engines built with larger-than-factory cylinder bores. It is not automatically the correct choice for an unmodified B16, B17, or B18C engine.
Key Features and Benefits
- 84mm Gasket Bore: Designed for compatible enlarged-bore Honda B-series VTEC applications.
- .030-Inch Compressed Thickness: Provides a defined gasket thickness for calculating compression ratio and piston-to-head clearance.
- Three-Layer Stainless Steel Construction: Offers strength, resilience, and corrosion resistance through repeated engine heat cycles.
- Embossed Outer Layers: Engineered to distribute sealing pressure around the combustion chambers.
- Viton-Based Coating: Helps accommodate microscopic surface irregularities and demanding sealing environments.
- Stainless Steel Center Layer: Maintains structural stability and controls gasket thickness.
- Performance Engine Applications: Suitable for appropriately prepared naturally aspirated, turbocharged, supercharged, and nitrous-assisted builds.
- No Routine Retorque Required: When installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions with the appropriate fasteners.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cometic Gasket |
| Manufacturer Part Number | C4188-030 |
| Product Type | Cylinder Head Gasket |
| Engine Family | Honda B-Series DOHC VTEC |
| Engine Applications | Compatible B16 / B17 / B18C configurations |
| Construction | Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) |
| Material | Three-Layer Stainless Steel |
| Gasket Bore | 84mm (3.307 inches) |
| Compressed Thickness | .030 inches (0.762mm) |
| Outer Layer Coating | Viton-Based Fluoroelastomer |
| Coating Temperature Resistance | 250°C / 482°F |
| Quantity | 1 Head Gasket |
| Intended Use | Performance Engine Rebuild / Enlarged-Bore Engine Applications |
$96.51
Year, Make, Model & Engine Fitment
The following vehicles are associated with Honda’s B-series VTEC engine family. Because this gasket has an 84mm opening, each application requires confirmation of the engine’s actual bore and build configuration.
| Years | Make | Model / Trim | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1992–1993 | Acura | Integra GS-R | B17A1 1.7L VTEC |
| 1994–2001 | Acura | Integra GS-R | B18C1 1.8L VTEC |
| 1997–1998 | Acura | Integra Type R | B18C5 1.8L VTEC |
| 2000–2001 | Acura | Integra Type R | B18C5 1.8L VTEC |
| 1994–1997 | Honda | Civic del Sol VTEC | B16A3 1.6L VTEC |
| 1999–2000 | Honda | Civic Si | B16A2 1.6L VTEC |
Fitment warning: These are potential engine-family applications, not guaranteed direct-fit claims for stock engines. The gasket’s 84mm combustion opening must be matched to the engine’s finished bore and cylinder head/block configuration.
Why Choose Cometic MLS for a Honda VTEC Build?
Honda B-series engines are popular for naturally aspirated performance, turbocharging, and custom engine combinations.
However, increasing cylinder pressure or changing engine dimensions places additional demands on cylinder head sealing.
The Cometic C4188-030 uses three layers of stainless steel, with embossed sealing features designed to maintain contact pressure around the combustion chambers.
Its construction is intended to accommodate the thermal expansion associated with aluminum cylinder heads and cast-iron blocks.
When installed on properly prepared mating surfaces, the gasket can provide a durable sealing solution for compatible performance builds.
FYI: Why an 84mm Head Gasket Bore Matters
Factory Honda B16, B17, and B18C engines generally use an 81mm cylinder bore.
The Cometic C4188-030 has an 84mm gasket opening—3mm larger than the nominal factory bore.
This larger opening is intended to accommodate appropriate modified engine configurations. It should not be interpreted as a recommendation to overbore a stock B-series block to 84mm without suitable engine-block engineering.
A stock B-series block may require reinforcement or cylinder sleeves for substantially enlarged cylinder bores.
Before choosing this gasket, measure the finished cylinder bore and confirm that the combustion sealing area, gasket alignment, and cylinder head configuration are compatible.
For related engine repair information, see How to Fix a B18 Blown Head Gasket on My Pro Street Online.
Installation Recommendations
- Measure the finished cylinder bore and verify the gasket opening.
- Inspect the cylinder head and block deck for warpage, cracks, and surface damage.
- Confirm that the deck surface finish meets Cometic’s MLS requirements.
- Clean both mating surfaces without scratching or gouging them.
- Verify gasket alignment with the cylinder head, block, and locating dowels.
- Install the gasket according to Cometic’s instructions.
- Install appropriate cylinder head bolts or studs.
- Follow the correct fastener tightening sequence and specifications.
- Reassemble the engine and verify mechanical timing.
- Check the cooling system and inspect for leaks after assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Cometic C4188-030 fit a Honda B18C1?
It is designed for compatible B18C VTEC engine configurations, but the 84mm gasket opening must be appropriate for the engine’s finished bore and build.
Will it fit a 2000 Honda Civic Si?
The B16A2 belongs to the listed engine family. However, the factory bore is approximately 81mm, so an 84mm gasket should not automatically be selected for a stock engine.
Can I use this gasket on a sleeved B-series engine?
Potentially. Verify the finished bore, sleeve installation, gasket sealing area, and cylinder head compatibility.
Is this gasket suitable for turbocharged engines?
It can be considered for properly engineered forced-induction applications. Reliable sealing depends on tuning, cylinder pressure, head clamping, and surface preparation.
Does this product include head bolts or studs?
No. This listing is for one MLS cylinder head gasket only.
Build Your Honda VTEC Engine with Cometic
The Cometic C4188-030 MLS Head Gasket combines an 84mm gasket bore, .030-inch compressed thickness, and three-layer stainless steel construction for compatible Honda B-series VTEC performance engines.
Whether you’re building a modified B18C or assembling a custom Honda VTEC engine, selecting the correct gasket is essential for dependable performance.
Shop Honda and Acura performance engine components at Pro Street Online.
Specification: Cometic C4188-030 MLS Head Gasket for Honda B16, B17 & B18C VTEC Engines
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