Replacing head gasket on a 1.6d

Post by **NeedABus** » 31 Mar 2006, 07:12

Is it a huge job?

The engine hasn't had a catastrophic failure, but I've got water loss and bubbles in the water, so I'm preparing for the worst.

Latest indication is that water is coming out of the front now, but I suspect that is a symptom on the water system getting pressurised by the air coming in rather than the cause of my problems.

Obviously I will check and fix simple leaks first just to be sure.

It is a (proper certified) recon engine with 30k on it, that hasn't overheated, so I don't see why the gasket would start to blow, but if it has surely I'm better to sort it before it gets to overheating.

So, can anyone give me a high level description of what I need to do, so I can decide if it's a DIY job, or I'm going to have to pay someone?

Thanks for your help.

Post by **Louey** » 31 Mar 2006, 09:04

I've not had to do this job (touches wood/head)

I think it can be done with the engine in. Best having a look at the Bentley manual or the Golf Haynes Diesel manual to get at least an idea of what it entails. You'll need a Torque wrench for the head bolts.

Best of luck

Post by TD » 31 Mar 2006, 18:41

Bit early for a cracked head?, gasket should have been ok for 100K, was it torqued right?, is it now warped?, prob need a new head at least . You are chucking money/work at a half finished job if you just do the gasket?
Why overheated, is rad blocked?, pipes ok etc. Find the cause. Unless it is a cheapo engine of course ,when probably best junked.

Post by **NeedABus** » 31 Mar 2006, 19:21

It's not overheating - yet. Would if I wasn't watching it like a hawk.

Looking at Haynes, changing the gasket looks reasonably straightforward.

I'm going to flush out the water system and check for leaks - suspect the heater.

Surely worst case would be getting the head skimmed, given the age of the head?