Head Gasket Leak – Engine Overheating Is Often The First Sign Of Trouble

Apart from sealing the cylinder, the head gasket also seals coolant and oil conduits; between the head and block. So, any connectivity between them, will cause engine failure. White exhaust smoke, is an indicator of coolant burning; another sign of a head gasket leak.

Being this close to the combustion process; the head gasket has to be tough. Despite the critical importance of this part; new head gasket sets are surprisingly affordable.

Symptoms Of A Head Gasket Leak

Here are the most common symptoms, that you have a  head gasket leak:

• An external oil or coolant leak at the seam between the engine block and cylinder head; is a sign that you have a head gasket failure or a cracked block. On disassembly, check for cracks and cylinder head warping.
• Cylinder misfire is another sign of head gasket failure; especially if the breach is between, two cylinders on the same head. Cylinder compression and leakdown tests, can localize the leak for scrutiny on disassembly.
• Misfire on startup, if accompanied by a puff of white exhaust; could indicate a leak, from the cooling system into the cylinder.
• Overheating is one of the less-obvious signs, of a blown head gasket. Depending on the severity of the leak; you may see, bubbles in the overflow tank.
• Discolored fluids are more subtle signs, of a blown head gasket.
• Coolant-contaminated oil, takes on a frothy consistency. It’s like finding a latte under your oil cap or in the valve covers.
• Oil-contaminated coolant, forms a mayonnaise-like film; which you might find on the radiator cap, oil filler cap or in the overflow reservoir.

If you suspect you have a head gasket leak; take your time diagnosing the problem:

• Dry and wet compression tests and a cylinder leak down test might reveal the location of the leak.
• A block tester can help determine, whether combustion gases are present in the cooling system.

Head Gasket Leak Prevention

Sorry to say, but there is no fool proof way to, prevent a head gasket leak. Head gaskets do wear out over time. And, there are many engines out there, that are just prone to leaks; because of their design. Despite your best efforts, the gasket may fail anyway.

So, the best way to slow down a head gasket leak; is to ensure your engine does not overheat.

Check the radiator and coolant overflow tanks, anytime you check your oil level. Add coolant as needed, and watch for any unexplained fluid loss. Check the radiator hoses for splits or frays and replace at the first sign of damage.

Watch for fluid leaks under your vehicle and any unusual smoke. Signs of a head gasket leak, will vary by the engine and the particular way the gasket failed.

One Very Important Note !!

A cylinder head may have to be removed for; any number of reasons. A head gasket leak or even a valve job. Make sure you take it to a reputable machine shop and make sure that the head is resurfaced. Even if the head is not warped it should be resurfaced. The head must have the proper (RMS) finish for the new head gasket to seal properly. If you don’t you are asking for a second failure.

Conclusion

One of the best ways to diagnose this problem is to use a combustion leak tester. Basically this is a device that, detects exhaust gases in the coolant.

When dealing with a head gasket failure; it is important to identify the root cause behind the failure; before installing a new gasket; otherwise, you risk destroying the new gasket.