COMETIC Gaskets: Pro-Level Solutions for Performance Builds

Whether you're building a turbocharged street car, running nitrous, or dialing in a full track-spec engine, you know performance is all about the details. When it comes to sealing the engine block, handling high temps and compression, and ensuring longevity, nothing is more critical than the head gasket. That’s where COMETIC steps in.

For over 30 years, this U.S.-based manufacturer has been at the forefront of gasket technology. From professional motorsport teams to garage-built beasts, COMETIC gaskets offer cutting-edge sealing solutions for those who demand the absolute best.

In this article, we’ll explore why COMETIC is the gold standard in motorsport and tuning, with a special focus on their MLS and MLX head gaskets – and how they stack up not just against each other, but also compared to conventional gasket technologies.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dive into what makes COMETIC truly stand out: their MLS and MLX head gaskets – the core of their sealing innovation.

MLS and MLX: The Core of COMETIC’s Head Gasket Technology

The head-to-block seal is one of the most stressed areas in any engine. If the gasket fails, performance plummets and reliability is at risk. COMETIC's MLS and MLX designs solve this with engineered excellence.

MLS (Multi-Layer Steel): Multiple layers of stainless steel allow these gaskets to flex and seal perfectly under extreme pressure. The outer layers can feature Viton® elastomer coating for superior resistance to heat, oil, and chemicals.

MLX: Building on the MLS platform, MLX adds a “stopper” ring layer that increases crush strength and sealing stability – ideal for engines with extreme cylinder pressures, such as those using high boost, nitrous, or aggressive cam profiles.

MLS vs MLX vs Conventional Gaskets – Why They Win

Conventional gaskets (e.g., graphite or paper) often deform under thermal cycling, struggle to retain compression, and are prone to blowouts.

MLS gaskets are more resilient and conform better to block/head expansion, providing long-term leak-free sealing.

MLX designs go a step further, offering precision sealing in high-pressure builds where even minor leaks could cost horsepower or reliability.

Both types can be reinstalled after teardown in many cases, saving cost and reducing downtime.

But COMETIC’s innovation doesn’t end at the head gasket. In fact, their extensive product lineup spans the entire engine system with the same attention to durability and performance.

Beyond the Head Gasket: Full Range of COMETIC Sealing Solutions

COMETIC’s expertise doesn’t stop at the combustion chamber. Their product line covers the full engine:

Oil pan, exhaust, and water pump gaskets:

AFM (Aluminum Foam Material): Reusable and durable under heat and fluid exposure.

Embossed steel & graphite: Ideal for high-temp exhaust systems.

Complete engine gasket kits:

Designed to fit specific engine platforms with head, intake/exhaust, valve cover, crank seals, oil pan, and more – ensuring proper fit and fewer leaks.

Specialty gasket materials:

Aramid fiber (Kevlar-based): For high-heat exhaust zones.

Fiber/cellulose: For carburetor and low-pressure systems.

Cork-rubber: Flexible and forgiving for covers and pans.

Solid copper: Excellent for drag racing and extreme tuning use.

Exceptional products require exceptional processes. COMETIC’s manufacturing and quality control approach ensures each gasket meets the demands of top-level motorsport environments.

Manufacturing Precision and Quality Control

Every COMETIC gasket is manufactured using:

Laser cutting for accurate shape and port matching

Precision stamping to avoid stress-related failures

Manual and automated inspection to maintain consistency

Batch quality testing against CAD blueprints

These standards ensure that every gasket performs as expected, whether it’s in a 15-minute sprint race or a 24-hour endurance event.

Of course, not every project fits neatly into a part catalog. That’s why COMETIC offers full custom gasket engineering tailored to your build.

Custom Gaskets for Unique Builds

Not every engine build fits into a part number. When your project calls for something beyond standard – rare head casting, swapped engine combo, or a motorsport-only platform – COMETIC delivers with custom gasket design.

Engineers will work from your specs, drawings, or physical sample, and develop a gasket solution that perfectly suits:

Thermal behavior of your setup

Surface finish tolerances

Material compatibility

Bolt/stud layouts and clamping loads

If you’re ready to put COMETIC gaskets to work in your build, here’s where to start.

Where to Get It

COMETIC gaskets are available across Europe through trusted distributors – and you’ll find them in stock at LLRacing.eu, your performance and motorsport parts specialist. Whether you need a full gasket kit or a custom quote, our team is here to help.