Head Gaskets Options

[brandomc]

I bought a engine last week that was supposedly a 1.7, but the guy didnt really know for sure. After looking at the case numbers, I think it might be a 1.8?? It starts with EB. I took all of the sheetmetal off to repaint it, and everything is really clean accept for around 1 of the cylinders between the head and the cylinder, it is black and kindof oily. I figure this is a leaky cylinder. Do i need new head gaskets? Or just retorque the head? Where do i get head gaskets? Pelican parts doesnt sell them. What should i do with this? It is supposed to be a fairly low mileage engine. Thanks

[VaccaRabite]

It is surely a leak. If you did a compression and a leakdown test, you would likely find that cylinder to be leaky. Now go do compression (at least) and leakdown and report back

If you want to find a stop gap that MIGHT work, check the torque on the head. Maybe it is a little loose. If it is not loose, overtightening by a pound or two might close it up. This won't be a longtime fix, and I'll probably get flamed for suggesting it. But it can work for a while.

Head gaskets were often removed and not replaced due to a tech note by VW for the T4 in the Bus. You engine may not have head gaskets at all.

So - here are some of the possible causes for a head leak at the cylinder.
1) loose bolts. This is what you are hoping for.
2) blown head gasket (expect enthusiastic debate on the value of head gaskets - I don't run one in my car. Others do.)
3) Case at the base of the cylinders is collapsing. (rebuild time)
4) worn/cracked head
5) worn/cracked cylinder
6) any combination of the above, and other stuff that was not on the top of my head.

Every used motor should be treated as a rebuildable core. Even the "great condition, low mileage" ones. Especially them, actually. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

Zach