Club 80-90 Forums

Unfortunately this evening my van has developed a leak from the cylinder head gasket. Its a 1.9dg. Im so busy at the moment that I haven't really got time to sort this out and if I'm being honest is probably a bit above my mechanical skills. Can anybody recommended a mechanic that could remove the head and complete the work for me, I'm well aware this will probably lead to other issues like seized nuts and corroded head studs etc but I really need this fixing sooner rather than later. I'll take the engine out and drop it off for whoever can do it. I'm based in Eastbourne but happy to travel a reasonable distance if I can find somebody decent.

Thanks in advance,

Gary

You could try spannerboy, he's in Guildford.

A coolant leak from the water jacket is common, it's not the same as a traditional head gasket failure because the cylinder bores have seperate seals.Unless it's loosing lots of coolant consider waiting and regular top ups or adding a sealing additive.
Don't rush into removing a head, it could end up being very expensive.

Doug's VW Werks in angmering is very good

themattsteele wrote:Doug's VW Werks in angmering is very good

I've allready sent him a message, I've used him before for an engine tune up on my old air cooled and he was great. Hopefully he will get back to me tomorrow

itchyfeet wrote:A coolant leak from the water jacket is common, it's not the same as a traditional head gasket failure because the cylinder bores have seperate seals.Unless it's loosing lots of coolant consider waiting and regular top ups or adding a sealing additive.
Don't rush into removing a head, it could end up being very expensive.

It is quite an excessive leak to be honest. I've had a good look underneath the engine and I'm almost certain it is leaking from the cylinder head gasket at the bottom of the engine. My did and I fixed the other side a couple of years ago when a head stud rusted and broke and it went very well. Unfortunately he is unable to help at the moment for one reason and another so I need to get assistance elsewhere. Unfortunately I decided to leave the other side due to a lack of funds at the time. In hindsight I probably should of taken the other head off and changed all gaskets etc at the same time. I guess you live and learn.

lloydy wrote:You could try spannerboy, he's in Guildford.

Thanks lloydy, I will see if I can find a number and give him a shout tomorrow.

Plus 1 for Doug's VW Werks in angmering