[PeteD]

Regarding the "gaskets", there is a paper gasket at the base of the jug, between the jug and the case, and there is a copper ring at the top of the jug, between the jug and the head.

Back when I raced Formula Vee, based on the 1200cc VW type I engine, we needed to squeeze every little bit of horsepower out of those tiny engines, while not violating the formula. One trick was to not use the paper gaskets at the base of the jugs. Instead just use a smear of gasket sealer. The theory was that this gave us that tiny bit more compression in the cylinder. No one ever measured the difference, but everyone who knew about the idea did it.