Re: 1985 720 2.4 Head Gasket

also had the head

> re-done > last time so will not have to do that again.

Let me guess, the first time it overheated and then blew a head gasket.

I used a Fel-pro gasket last.

Bad move.

I > expect the job to go quicker due to short time span and my memory,lol > Agian I > would appreciate any insight or advice. I will wait till it warms up > around here as it has been around -10 to +10. > > I will post my results again along with any insights I may have.

Common problem, The cylinder head is made of heat treated aluminum (after it's cast it's heat treated). Once you get one REALLY hot you anneal the metal and it becomes MUCH softer than it was originally and it therefore no longer stable. Also more prone to threads pulling out etc. Anyway most machine shops never test the rockwell hardness of heads before they work on them, nor do they reheat treat them. So even though the head is flat, it's no longer dimensionally stable and it will repeatedly blow head gaskets. I've learned most of the time if an engine overheats to the point of blowing a head gasket with an aluminum head, it's best to go find another head than spend any money in vain attempts at repairing it. I'd suggest you do the same unless you enjoy replacing head gaskets! :-)

Reply to
Steve T
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Steve T wrote>Let me guess, the first time it overheated and then blew a head gasket.

Hi Steve, This truck has never overheated in the 18 years I have had it. This will be the 4th head gasket and the 2nd for my install. Each time it just started pinging and blowing smoke except this time there was no pinging, just smoke. Which gasket would you suggest I purchase if not Fel-pro? I will also look around and ask about another head if possible. Thanks for the advice...Jerry

Reply to
Jlfcopter

I'd still replace the head with a used one. Something is wrong. I just went through this with my own truck, an old mitsubishi. I too wanted to save money and kept replacing the gaskets. After the third one, I bought another head and it's been fine ever since.

Original from the dealer.

Reply to
Steve T

Go to Nissan and get one of their head gaskets, yes they are more money, clean the head and block just like Pete said, put in a quality antifreeze (something that will last more than a year) mix it right to your conditions, check your rad cap too, make sure it is right pressure range for your truck..... You shouldn't have any more problems. Dave.

Reply to
Pacific Sun Automotive

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