Thread: Head Gasket query

In 1995, (actually from MY1994 IIRC) the head bolts were torque to yield type, can't be reused. They aren't expensive anyway. I would suggest using early 3.5 torque / tightening instructions, and genuine (Elring) gaskets. Obviously the later engines don't have the 3rd row of bolts, so ignore the settings for those

http://www.v8wizard.com/Torque_Settings_Rover_V8.html

JC

Originally Posted by Davo

Have you done a compression test to make sure?

Hi Davo,

Usually it isn't required as the noise is pretty loud, and escaping gasses can actually be felt with your finger next to the block/ head join of the offending cylinder. I have even squirted CRC around and seen the resultant gas leak.
A bit like the Tdi head gasket failure at the back of the head, pretty obvious when you stick your hand next to it

JC

I just mentioned it since it's easy to assume it's the head gasket when it could be something easier, though in this case it does seem like it's the "big expensive loud noise" and not the "could be something simple little noise"!

Mine is coming up to 190K.. so I suppose the head gasket(s) are past their use-by date... (95 model, 3.9 LC) Rarely take it up to 3,000rpm as the fuel gauge falls too fast at anything over that...

Any value in planing the heads when it happens ? - Was thinking that lifting the compression ratio a tad would'nt be a Bad Thing regarding 'efficiency' and fuel consumption.
Or is that purely academic for these engines?

Ok, this week i've pulled the heads off and yes it was a blown head gasket.
Just got heads back from being machined. They were all good and the valves are still in very good nic.
So tomorrow we put it all back together.
Any tips from those who have done it before?
We spent heaps of time cleaning everything that we pulled off.