How do you replace a head gasket?

Part 1 of 4: Gather information and supplies

1. Materials Needed.
2. Step 1: Find the VIN.
3. Step 2: Find a vehicle service manual for your car.
4. Step 1: Disconnect the battery.
5. Step 2: Drain engine oil and engine coolant.
6. Step 3: Remove all components from the cylinder head.
7. Step 4: Remove the fasteners in sequence.

How do you replace a head gasket on a car?

Some head bolts cannot be reused and must be replaced. Follow the manual and manufacture requirements. Once all head bolts are out then lift the cylinder head off of the engine block. Look at the head surface and the block along with the gasket for the failure areas.

Where is the head gasket on a V-type engine?

There are 6 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. The head gasket is found between the engine block and the cylinder head or heads in a V-type engine. The gasket functions as a seal that prevents the combustion process from leaking into the coolant passages that surround each cylinder.

What do you need to know about gasket failure?

Look at the head surface and the block along with the gasket for the failure areas. The gasket will be a thin piece of sealing material that can be seen once you remove the head. The gasket can be made out of metal, deformable material, or a combination of both. The failure can be a break in the gasket.

Why does my radiator have a blown head gasket?

Community Answer. Most likely, the head gasket is allowing the pressure from the pistons/cylinder to leak through the water galleys, and cause bubbles or pressure in the radiator. This is a classic sign of a blown head gasket.

Can you change the head gasket on a 1999 Cavalier?

On a 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 2.4-liter engine, you can replace the gasket after removing the intake manifold to access the cylinder head. While novice mechanics may find it difficult, following the guide and taking special care when removing engine components will allow you to change the gasket in a few hours.

What makes the head gasket on a Toyota Tacoma?

The head gasket is a sealing layer of durable material that is sandwiched between the cylinder head and engine block. When tightened down, the cylinder head crushes the head gasket into the cylinder block, causing any imperfections to be sealed by force. What are the symptoms related to a bad head gasket?

When does the head gasket fail on a car?

When the head gasket begins to fail, the engine may have no symptoms at all. They only begin to occur when the leak has reached an engine oil passage, engine coolant passage or the engine cylinder. When that happens, the engine may be very difficult to start, and run roughly when idling.

How much does a head gasket replacement cost?

A Chevrolet Cavalier Head Gasket Replacement costs between $903 and $1,096 on average. Get a free detailed estimate for a repair in your area. A Chevrolet Cavalier Head Gasket Replacement costs between $903 and $1,096 on average. Get a free detailed estimate for a repair in your area. Chevrolet Cavalier Head Gasket Replacement Cost Estimate Close