Should I replace the head gasket?
10-02-2014, 02:05 PM
#3
Head bolts
I am asking on a different forum about head bolts, I do believe the stock head bolts a reusable, some types stretch and have to be replaced every time, I have been corrected in the past, recommending that they always be changed, which I was wrong on. Ill make sure that is correct and get back to you, a new set is 100$ or so
10-02-2014, 02:10 PM
#4
Reuse
Just verified it with Nismopick, reusable, along as they are not damaged. Gotta love Nissan and the quality of the parts they make. So I would concur, might as well change the head gasket, you are so close it's a no brainer
10-07-2014, 09:56 AM
#6
Just saw this thread...
I wouldn't necessarily replace the head gasket "just because". How many miles are on the engine? Has it ever overheated?
You don't have to pull the timing cover, use a 1" thick wood block with a wire handle and shove it in between the inside of the two sides of the timing chain. This is outlined in the FSM. Make sure the engine is set to TDC, insert wood block tight enough that the chain can't move, then remove the cam sprocket. Mark the chain links and cam sprocket so you can reinstall properly.
I wouldn't necessarily replace the head gasket "just because". How many miles are on the engine? Has it ever overheated?
You don't have to pull the timing cover, use a 1" thick wood block with a wire handle and shove it in between the inside of the two sides of the timing chain. This is outlined in the FSM. Make sure the engine is set to TDC, insert wood block tight enough that the chain can't move, then remove the cam sprocket. Mark the chain links and cam sprocket so you can reinstall properly.
10-07-2014, 11:44 AM
#7
Registered User
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Fort Wayne, IN
Posts: 143
Just saw this thread...
I wouldn't necessarily replace the head gasket "just because". How many miles are on the engine? Has it ever overheated?
You don't have to pull the timing cover, use a 1" thick wood block with a wire handle and shove it in between the inside of the two sides of the timing chain. This is outlined in the FSM. Make sure the engine is set to TDC, insert wood block tight enough that the chain can't move, then remove the cam sprocket. Mark the chain links and cam sprocket so you can reinstall properly.
I wouldn't necessarily replace the head gasket "just because". How many miles are on the engine? Has it ever overheated?
You don't have to pull the timing cover, use a 1" thick wood block with a wire handle and shove it in between the inside of the two sides of the timing chain. This is outlined in the FSM. Make sure the engine is set to TDC, insert wood block tight enough that the chain can't move, then remove the cam sprocket. Mark the chain links and cam sprocket so you can reinstall properly.
Thanks for the advice on the wood block, I have seen something similar on another forum.
Given the black mess that is under the valve cover, I may give it a go in order to get that cleaned up and take a look at the valves. I'm a bit above my head. (no pun).
10-08-2014, 09:50 AM
#8
I have a present for you...
Join Date: Mar 2003
Location: dayton, nevada usa
Posts: 1,691
If you pull the head it is likely you will have to have it surfaced and you might as well do a valve job. After 40+ years of heat cycles a long aluminum head with that many variations in shape will warp. If there are no bubbles in the radiator indicating compression leaks or seepage around the head, leave it alone! jmo
10-08-2014, 10:27 AM
#9
Registered User
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Fort Wayne, IN
Posts: 143
If you pull the head it is likely you will have to have it surfaced and you might as well do a valve job. After 40+ years of heat cycles a long aluminum head with that many variations in shape will warp. If there are no bubbles in the radiator indicating compression leaks or seepage around the head, leave it alone! jmo
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