Wednesday, September 14, 2011

About to get head gaskets changed...just some questions?

im about to get my head gaskets changed tommorow at my mechanic, and besides changing the head gaskets, re grinding the cylinder heads and checking for cracks, is there anything else the mechanic should do?, and also if the gaskets are changed correctly, how long will they last?About to get head gaskets changed...just some questions?
usually head gasket replacement is done because the gasket or head is damaged by overheating. Find the original cause of the overheating and fix it. or you will be doing this again real soon. quick recomendations hoses belts thermostat flush or replace radiater. change all fluids coolant oil and atf.About to get head gaskets changed...just some questions?
you dont grind the cylinder heads,they flycut them to make flat again only if needed.if you are changing the head gaskets would be a good idea to get a valve job at the same time.About to get head gaskets changed...just some questions?
Yeah get the heads worked,grind the valves and get new seals put on,they usually do that automaticallyAbout to get head gaskets changed...just some questions?
Change the oil afterwards. Since debris could fall into it.About to get head gaskets changed...just some questions?
Make sure you know what the root cause of head gasket failure was. If your gasket blew because of an overheating problem then find out why. Was it a coolant leak or failed water pump? Either way, find out what caused the gasket failure and get that fixed as well.About to get head gaskets changed...just some questions?
You don't change head gaskets just for the hell of it, what was wrong? Was it overheating or losing coolant?

Well, anyway, if the heads are coming off, overhaul them completely. While off, though, you might inspect the block faces and bores for cracks, or you are wasting your money. You might also gauge whether there is any damage in the bores that might indicate heavy wear, scoring or broken rings.

All things being reasonable, and heads reconned, and care being taken to not overheat the engine, you should not have any problem.

'Til next time.