ANYBODY KNOW HOW THICK A STOCK HEAD GASKET IS AND HOW MANY POINTS ON THE COMPRESSION DO YOU PICKUP WENT PUTING IN A .018 GASKET.??

pretty sure stock is .030

Stock compression (i may be wrong) is 12.0:1. I am pretty sure with the .018 comression is raised to 12.5:1.

Also keep in mind, you're changing the relationship between the crank and cams. In order to keep the same relationship (or alter it for an improved powerband, while you're in there) you need to install adjustable cam gears. I've heard of people not doing it, but in my opinion you already have it apart. Do it right the first time.

Expect 5-7 hp. You can still run 87 or 89 octane pump gas as well.

Cool. I've always liked the idea of boosting the compression. Messing with cams sounds a bit beyond my scope though. Maybe one day.

I'm surprised by 5-7 HP increase by an increase in compression. I've read that the higher the stock compression the less of HP increase you get. By using thinner head gasket you would have effectively retarded the cam timing in relation to the crankshaft which gives more top end and less bottom end but it may only be a small change.