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Topic: head gasket install? (Read 2647 times) previous topic - next topic

head gasket install?

can someone tell me the proper way to install a headgasket?  I guess I did something wrong the last time. :dunno: are you supposed to use some kind of a sealer or install them dry? can anyone help?

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #1 –
I never had a tc but I can't imagine how it would be different. All I ever done is clean block of old gasket, clean the head of old gasket, vacuum off the gasket shavings...antifreeze.. etc off the pistons.

When everything is clean and dry just lay the new gasket down, make sure it sits nice in the dowels and drop the head on. The theme here is "clean" No sealer just block, gasket and head...

Than follow the bolt sequence and torque specs, should be a paper that comes with the gasket...

Now if your still having problems maybe you should get the head checked for straightness..
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Re: head gasket install?

Reply #2 –
well I put the head on about a month ago, followed all of the torqu specs and torque sequences then yesterday going down the highway it blew.  I guess this time I'll be extra careful when I install it.

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #3 –
did you buy new head bolts?
It's Gumby's fault.

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #4 –
Need to be sure the head isn't warped. If it has been overheated its a good possibility.

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #5 –
well it sounds like your head is warped. if you have a machined straight edge and feeler gages you can check how warped it is. also when you are cleaning it you can see if its warped or cracked that way.if it is warped then you are gonna have to dsend it off to the machine shop. also using the old head bolts could also allow it to blow out again even if its a new headgasket. everytime ive dome em (on other cars) i would clean it down and also changed out the head bolts to be on the safe side.

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #6 –
I clean the threads on the block side with a tap too, just make sure you got the right size tap and just take you time threading the tap.
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Re: head gasket install?

Reply #7 –
well the guy at the part store told me that I could reuse my bolts I made sure to ask him if I needed new ones and he told me no.  I guess thats what I get for listening to him.... I mean come on he works in a part store not a shop  I should know better.  I will check the head when I pull it apart and I will by new bolts this time.  probably some beer too :hick:  might be possible that the torque wrench I was using isnt correct too.  I'll buy or rent one.  thanks guys

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #8 –
I work at a parts store and this is how it goes most of the time.  Easy three step process.
1.  Step back
2. Close hood
3. Call mechanic
One 88

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #9 –
never listen to the guys at the parts stores, unless they say "i have one of those, its parked over there", especially when it comes to 2.3L cars, theyre more than glad to sell you wells TFI modules, py headgaskets, and platinum spark plugs
It's Gumby's fault.

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #10 –
well I would rather ask you guys than some guy at a part store............... you guys have been around these cars alot more than most people and I have learned alot from you since I came to this forum.  I guess that tells you how much I appreciate the help you have given me.  thanks Graham

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #11 –
well I got the gasket changed and kept everything as clean as possible.  car runs much better than it did before it blew.  now heres my question...    one book told me to torque to 50-60 ft. lbs. (1983 mitchell) and my haynes manual says to torque them to 80-90 ft.lbs.  which one is right?  :dunno:

Re: head gasket install?

Reply #12 –
How can you ask that question now? sounds like you got it all together already  :hick:
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