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Cylinder head gasket

To: <spridgets-owner@autox.team.net>, "midgetsprite group" <midgetsprite@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Cylinder head gasket
Date: Thu, 8 Sep 2005 13:41:23 -0700
Cc: <Spridgets@autox.team.net>
Here' s copy of some sonund advice on Cylinder head gasket replacement from a
tech mag I get.

FWIW

Paul A


Tech Tip: Basic Cylinder Head Gasket Installation Tips

In Issue 9 / default

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---
For a successful repair, the cylinder head gasket must seal fuel, air, vacuum,
hot pressurized combustion gases, coolant, as well as high and low pressure
oil. The following tips will help ensure that a quality repair is made.

1. Make sure the reason for head gasket failure is properly diagnosed - rarely
does a head gasket fail on its own accord.

A. Consider the driving conditions the engine is being placed under - many
times engine damage or gasket failure is the result of asking too much of a
drivetrain.
B. Make sure overheating engines are properly repaired.
C. Make sure all induction symptoms are working properly - detonation and
pre-ignition will cause pre-mature gasket failure.


2. Make sure the head and block are in best condition possible - the smoother
and flatter the better!

A. Make sure both block and head are within published flatness specification
for the specific engine being repaired.
B. Make sure castings are thoroughly checked for cracks, pitting and
scratches.
C. Make sure the head and block surfaces are as smooth as possible - make sure
your machine shop knows what finish they are producing.
D. Never use abrasive disks on the head or block - these can lead to damaged
or uneven mating surfaces that can cause internal or external leaks; always
use a solvent and a soft scraper (rubber or plastic).
E. Handle newly machined parts with care - many times castings are scratched
or damaged by careless handling after an expensive, high-quality finish is
achieved.
F. Make sure mating surfaces are clean - all dirt and debris must be removed
(use of RTV and other chemicals on head gaskets is not recommended for too
many reasons to list).


3. Make sure proper bolt load is achieved - friction is the enemy.

A. Always use new torque-to-yield head bolts - stretched bolts do not return
to original specifications and can yield very erratic results.
B. Always clean old bolts with solvent and a soft bristled brush - do not
tumble or wire wheel as damage to the threads can easily occur.
C. Bottom tap all holes in the block, making sure that threads are in the best
possible condition.
D. Use light engine oil on bolt threads and under the bolt head - do not dip
bolts in oil as hydraulic lock can occur in blind holes resulting in possible
casting damage.
E. Always consult and follow the latest OEM torque specification - never guess
as each engine is unique and many late-model applications torque
specifications often change.
F. Periodically have your torque wrench calibrated - all precision shop gauges
need to be periodically serviced to maintain their accuracy.


For additional information on cylinder head gaskets, visit Corteco's website
at www.corteco-na.com.





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