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What are head gaskets and what causes it to blow on a 96 Toyota?

A head gasket is a thin, metal gasket that sits between the cylinder head and the engine block. It seals the combustion chamber and prevents coolant and oil from leaking out.

A blown head gasket can cause a variety of problems, including:

* Coolant leaks: A blown head gasket can allow coolant to leak into the combustion chamber, which can cause the engine to overheat.

* Oil leaks: A blown head gasket can also allow oil to leak into the coolant, which can contaminate the coolant and damage the engine.

* Engine overheating: A blown head gasket can also cause the engine to overheat due to loss of coolant.

* Loss of compression: A blown head gasket can also cause a loss of compression in the engine, which can lead to decreased power and performance.

There are a few things that can cause a head gasket to blow on a 96 Toyota, including:

* Overheating: Overheating is one of the most common causes of blown head gaskets. When the engine overheats, the metal components of the engine, including the head gasket, can expand and warp, which can cause the head gasket to fail.

* Excessive pressure: Excessive pressure in the combustion chamber can also cause a head gasket to blow. This pressure can be caused by a number of things, including a turbocharger or supercharger, high compression ratio, or a faulty exhaust system.

* Incorrect installation: If a head gasket is not installed correctly, it can also cause the head gasket to blow. This is why it is important to have a qualified mechanic install your head gasket.

If you think your head gasket may be blown, it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible. A blown head gasket can cause serious damage to your engine if left unrepaired.