Head Gasket Replacement

[Charles Abetz]

Hi all

I have a query about head gasket replacements, can they be done without replacing the cylinder heads and how much should it cost if you don't do what I have previously mentioned.

Thanks for you time.

Charles

[RedMk2Gti]

First, why do you need to replace headgasket ? have you seen chocolate cream in oil, lost of coolant without obvious leaking that kind of symptom ?
Not sure what you mean by "replace the head", you need to remove the head in order to change the gasket, definitely you don't need to replace it if it is in good condition, but it is a good time to recondition the head while it is out.
If you DIY, the headgasket kit + all head bolt should cost you < $200. Hope this answer your questions.

[DVR68U]

If you have blown a HG then there is a good chance that the head is warped, if the car overheated then i would get it checked out. you can always try your luck but i would think you'd have a 75% chance of taking it off again.
When you do it screw the bolts into there holes to push all the oil out before you start other wise it will push out onto the gasket and ruin the seal.
cheers brenton

[Jmac]

Blow the holes out otherwise the bolts wont tighten properly anyway and you will blow another gasket!
Have we established why the head is coming off yet???
Few simple checks before making that grim decision as the guys are right the head probably will be off true and you might have to throw it away.
They always go between 2 and 3 thats where all the heat is.
Cheers

[Golf Loon]

Real Early Mk1s have allen key type headbolts. These can be reused. Any with a splin head need to be replaced.

If you dont have airtools, turn bolts into all the boles while the head is off, this forces all the oil out.

It get the head skimmed and new valve stem seals put in at least, whilst you are at it.

[DVR68U]

id also do a compression test before i pulled it all apart, and even better a leak down test if you can get it done.
cheers brenton

[Charles Abetz]

Well to answer RedMk2Gti question, yes there is a leak of coolant onto the engine block from the head.

I don't think I have blown the head as the car doesn't overheat and the oil is the right colour (black) .

[Golf Loon]

Probably just one of the water outlets mate. Check that first.