how do you know if your head gasket is toast?

SomeStrangeGuy · 07-24-2004, 2:03 AM

Just wondering what tips and tricks y'all use aside from doing a leakdown test and/or milky oil/coolant from them exchanging glances inside the case.

The machine in question is a single cyl, fwiw, just wondering if there would be any simple telltale signs or if the 'signs' occur when its far too late?

Thanks n stuff

I should note that a simple compression test is not possible due to some automatic compression release system on the ride, and I don't have anything that could hold 200psi if I could get it out of there

ND4SPD · 07-24-2004, 10:26 AM

Is there antifreeze in it? Does it blow white smoke out the exhaust? Does the engine sputter?

dirkmc1 · 07-24-2004, 11:14 AM

Pul lthe plugs.....antifreeze will burn and leave a heavy brown color on the cylinder that is leaking

half · 07-24-2004, 11:53 AM

This will only work if it's leaking from the crankcase into the coolant system. Pull the hose from the coolant overflow tank, and put it in a clear glass full of water. Start the engine, if it makes bubbles in the glass you have a problem. I hope this helps.

SomeStrangeGuy · 07-25-2004, 1:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by half

This will only work if it's leaking from the crankcase into the coolant system. Pull the hose from the coolant overflow tank, and put it in a clear glass full of water. Start the engine, if it makes bubbles in the glass you have a problem. I hope this helps.

weird - and I'm far too tired to do math on this but since I have advised weirder, ill go it

ND4- D. neither of the above, possibly a little white smoke when it has been sitting fer awhile but nothing 'attention getting'.

Dirk - forgot all about that, it's a single - but the plug is relatively new and should have some indicators on there if its in any trouble.