Head Gasket

[fireblade]

I have just removed my TC cylinder head (1969 Elan SE) following a blown gasket. Not quite sure what to make of the old gasket that was last replaced some 20 years ago.
The part of the gasket that sits directly over the circular waterway holes 6 Of them I think seems to have just a very small hole for the coolant to pass through whereas the hole underneath is much larger in diameter. Why is it restricted? Can anyone please explain and put me out of my misery. There is also a build up of hard like sediment around the small hole and one of them looks blocked.
The general opinion from the Forum is to go for a Ajusa Composite gasket as a replacement. Should this also have the restricted hole.

[TeeJay]

Fireblade.

Having recently removed my cylinder head, I can confirm that my ?standard? head gasket removed, does have small holes.

But the Ajusa one has holes the same size as those on the block.

Will post photos later.

[TeeJay]

Photo marked with yellow circle on holes affected.

[Craven]

Small holes are correct, this done purposefully to reduce flow rate in that area of head.

[alan.barker]

I have always used standard Head gasket no problem with small holes.
On your car it has been good for 20 Years which to me is pretty good going.
Put a standard Gasket and in 20 Years you can change it
Alan