How to Install a Head Gasket

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A head gasket, which is found between the engine block and the cylinder head, plays an important role in the engine's function. The gasket functions as a seal and keeps the combustion process in the engine. It also prevents fluids, such as oil and coolant, from mixing. The price for an independent mechanic to replace a head gasket can be high due to the time-consuming labor involved. You can learn how to install a head gasket on your own to save money.

Steps

1. 1
   Obtain a service manual for your car's make and model.
2. 2
   Remove the parts that are on top of the head gasket. Refer to your car's service manual for specifics, but in most cases this involves removing the exhaust manifold, the intake manifold, head cover, and head. Depending on the car, you may need to remove a belt.
   • Catalog each part as it is removed. Either take pictures or write down each part to help you remember where everything goes once you're done.
   • The gasket will be a thin piece of sealing material that can be seen once you remove the head.
3. 3
   Check the head and block to be sure no warping has occurred. Don't try to replace a head gasket with 2 parts that will not meet smoothly.
   • Check the service manual for specifications.
   • If you need to, take the parts to a machine shop to be repaired.
4. 4
   Clean the surface of the head and block. Do not scratch or remove any metal from either, as this may prevent the head gasket from sealing.
5. 5
   Clean the bolt holes that tighten the head to the block.
6. 6
   Fit the head gasket onto the block. Use gasket sealant when specified by the manufacturer, and only use the directed amount in the particular places. Deviating from the manufacturer's recommendations can cause damage to the internal parts of the engine.
7. 7
   Place the head onto the block with the head gasket in place.
8. 8
   Use a torque wrench to tighten the head onto the block with new bolts. Check the service manual for the torque recommended on the block bolts.
9. 9
   Replace the other engine components you removed.
10. 10
    Check and / or adjust the valve parts to be sure that the timing is correct again.
11. 11
    Perform a final oil change and coolant change to remove impurities.

Tips

• Head gasket failure is often caused by an engine overheating. Keep an eye out for signs you may need a replacement of a head gasket, which can include loss of engine compression, mixing of oil and coolant, loss of coolant, and loss of oil. The 2 last causes can be very devastating to an engine if allowed to go on and may cause complete engine failure. Loss of coolant will cause the engine to overheat even more and potentially warp the head and other castings. Low oil can mean loss of the lubrication for the engine's internal mechanical components, which will increase friction increase wear on the engine parts.

Things You'll Need

• Service manual
• Socket set
• Camera or paper and pencil
• Head gasket
• Head-gasket sealant
• Head bolts
• Torque wrench

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