By lowering the compression with a 3mm headgasket, will I be able to make up for the power loss by advancing the timing?

Here is my situation. I want to run 450+ hp with the GT35R, which would require a 3mm head gasket. However for track, I would lower my boost level and tame it down to the 350hp range. I don't want to lose throttle and low RPM response with the 3mm head gasket. Will I be able to make up for the power lost by advancing the timing?

Or should I just keep the boost low with stock head gasket?

 

no. just try and stay above 4k rpms and you should be alright. 6k is optimal at the track.

 

If you don't mind me asking in your thread..

When speaking with Shane at AutoWave about installing an aftermarket headgasket, he mentioned aftermarket cam gears (ie. TODA cam gears) would be needed to fine tune it.

Are aftermarket cam gears necessary when installing an aftermarket headgasket?

 

^ no. You can take out the cog but its still not going to change timing that much. Just tune it properly.

 

No, the point of a headgasket is being able to run MORE boost to compensate for the decreased compression. Ignition is more dependent on octane rating then anything else.

I would use a headgasket and run slightly lower boost when at the track. You get the increased safety of the lowered compression as well as lower boost. Driveability shouldn't be an issue, even at the track you never get below 4-5k rpms anyway.