Beyond overheating, there are many additional reasons why head gaskets fail. Whether yours failed from overheating, detonation, or another unforeseeable cause, the steps for repair are relatively consistent.
If your head gasket needs repair or replacement, here are five steps to get your car in working order once again.
Ask Yourself: Do You Have The Time And Skill?
Before beginning this process, consider whether you have the time and skillset to complete this five-step repair. Basic repair knowledge may not be enough this time around. Reach out to a mechanic if need be.
1. To Begin The Head Gasket Repair, Remove It Safely
Using your service manual, determine the most effective way to remove the head gasket. Be sure to index the area before removal. For some vehicles, removing the exhaust manifold first is the safest way to remove the head gasket without causing damage. Check your vehicle manual to determine the safest removal technique.
2. Next, Check For Flatness
See if the head or block is overly flat. A flattened edge indicates that something is out of specification. Your repair shop can check for additional damage to complete the head gasket repair and address the flattened parts.
3. Then, Prep The Surface Layer
Prepare the top layer without scratching the surface. Scratches can lead to sealing issues. For proper head gasket repair, keep the block clean without scrubbing aggressively.
4. Continue Removing Residue
Using a tap, get rid of any residue to continue the head gasket repair. With your tap or your thread chaser, blow out the remaining crud with compressed air.
5. Then, Position The Head Gasket And Install!
Place the head gasket in its correct position. To seal the head gasket, use the accurate bolt tightening sequence for installation. Cover the head bolt threads using engine oil before starting.
Head Gaskets Are Complex
Head gaskets can be so expensive to replace because many parts sit in between them. Here’s a breakdown of the anatomy for head gasket repair:
- Resting inside the engine block are pistons. These pistons move up and down in a cylindrical motion.
- The pistons connect to rods, and the rods connect to the crankshaft that moves in a spinning motion.
- Secured at the top is a cylindrical head with internal valves that allow air to move into the cylinders.
- The head gasket is the unit sandwiched between the head and the engine block.
It’s not the head gaskets that are expensive; it’s maneuvering around everything else to get to the head gasket that adds up. If you get comfortable around tinkering around this, you can check out some Southwest performance parts and see for yourself if you can get the best cost vs performance.
Why Do Head Gaskets Matter?
Tending to your head gasket repair is essential as it keeps coolant and oil from combining into the cylinder head. If you hear your engine knocking, this is a sign of damage from an affected head gasket.
Get Your Car Running
Although repair only takes a series of steps, navigating the inner components is a complex process. If you’re well-versed in automotive repairs, give this five-step sequence a try to get your car running!
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