John:
I just replaced the head gasket on my 74.5 this weekend using a composite gasket.
The repair manual indicates a torque of 50-55 ft-lbs.
Although it doesn't differentiate between gasket types, it does indicate that the block should be checked well around each stud. The manual suggests that a common reason the head gaskets leak is because the block is raised around the studs.
Don't know if it will help, but something to think about.
Mike