Head Gasket can of worms??? - Now chasing Boost Leaks!!!

[montyrs2]

I think I am in a similar situation. On the head doing a full re furb is really the only option IMO, valve guides, seats etc. You can also get it pressure tested prior to refitting. If it's never been off before then there is plenty of meat for a skim and its not expensive, especially if done as part of the re furb.

[s2driveruk]

All of the above... i would get the injectors cleaned while they are out and flow tested too. Cheap and easy. New pcv pipe and clean the flame trap if you have it there still

[Lago Blue]

Steve,

I would share your apprehension here sir and certainly agree with the above responses. Not sure if this helps your budget, however it may serve to reduce concerns in encountering the possible unknowns, their impact and total time with the car apart if you did some or all of as follows:

Before dis-assembly (and hopefully the motor's current condition will allow):
a) If possible do the compression checks and record them (to try to capture the state of the rings) as there is the chance the coolant can damage them (either due to leaks or during said repair);
b) Get a spare cylinder-head and have it all done prior; and
c) If this car is turbo'd, then the hot-side stuff may be in need of attention, I have no idea.

A serviceable 2nd head and the work involved is not insignificant, but may (current motor and budget permitting) also allow one to more leisurely proceed and perhaps even possibly consider some stage one gas-flow work as the car would not yet be apart, such mods have no reliability penalty, and your motor is more efficient for them. Then, if the current head proved to be fine, bonus! You'd have choices.

[AndyP]

When were the timing belt and water pump last changed? Also good time to fit one of James's billet crank pulleys

[Bowie69]

Replace the valve guides if at all worn, this is the source of most smoke, and once the guides are worn, the seals won't do anything to help.

You can check the head with a steel rule quite easily, it will be quite obvious if at all warped.

Replace the coolant hoses and breathers that are difficult to get to when you are in there, better now than having to strip it all off again to fix a water leak.

[Fat Audi 80]

How will you assess if the head needs skimming, its false economy not to do it, if you already have it off. Imagine refuting everything and finding it still leaks due to the head being very slightly warped. I suggest you get it skimmed and checked for flatness as it will save tears.

Don't know! Probably send it off for inspection. I am not one to scrimp on my S2 anyway

[rustybullethole]

How will you assess if the head needs skimming, its false economy not to do it, if you already have it off. Imagine refuting everything and finding it still leaks due to the head being very slightly warped. I suggest you get it skimmed and checked for flatness as it will save tears.

[Fat Audi 80]

Morning all,

I need to tackle the water leak on my head gasket. If I am honest this job does scare me. Not necessarily from a mechanical point of view, more opening a potential can of worms!

Current plan:

Remove head
Assess if it needs skimming
Replace valve stem seals
Refit head.

Now we all know our cars are getting old and need maintenance and they also throw curve balls.

1.) What other jobs would you recommend doing while I am in there?

2.) What should I be scared of prepare myself for? (Cracks in head etc??)

3.) Rough idea of budget?


Thanks,

Steve