Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ radiator

Head gasket redux

JoeSpit

Member
Original poster
Joined
Dec 9, 2020
Messages
95
Location
island of maui
Hey gang, so i did my head gasket a few weeks ago, improperly i'd reckon too. I wasnt getting it before but now at start up ill get some white smoke, until the engine reaches temp then it stops. I'm not getting coolant in my oil (like i did when it was definitely blown) and i'm getting my regular MPG.

What i think it maybe:

- the headbolt that goes through the water jacket. I used some kind of thread sealer but the label has rubbed off so i'm not sure if it was right viscosity or whatever. --Should i redo the bolt with teflon tape instead?—

- i reused the original head bolts when i did it and maybe my torque wrench is out of spec ? --should i get new head bolts and a digi torque wrench?—

-perhaps my head has a crack? — it's a 2000 2.5l so i thought maybe it wouldnt have the casting issues of the 6cyl but maybe it do? --How do i test for that? it does have two exhaust bolts broken off from the previous owner so i do always have a lil bit of an exhaust leak.. so probably should replace anyways

Or could the issue be all of these issues and i should just pour in some K-seal?
 
Hey gang, so i did my head gasket a few weeks ago, improperly i'd reckon too. I wasnt getting it before but now at start up ill get some white smoke, until the engine reaches temp then it stops. I'm not getting coolant in my oil (like i did when it was definitely blown) and i'm getting my regular MPG.

What i think it maybe:

- the headbolt that goes through the water jacket. I used some kind of thread sealer but the label has rubbed off so i'm not sure if it was right viscosity or whatever. --Should i redo the bolt with teflon tape instead?—

- i reused the original head bolts when i did it and maybe my torque wrench is out of spec ? --should i get new head bolts and a digi torque wrench?—

-perhaps my head has a crack? — it's a 2000 2.5l so i thought maybe it wouldnt have the casting issues of the 6cyl but maybe it do? --How do i test for that? it does have two exhaust bolts broken off from the previous owner so i do always have a lil bit of an exhaust leak.. so probably should replace anyways

Or could the issue be all of these issues and i should just pour in some K-seal?

Let's break down your concerns:
  • Using the right thread sealer is crucial, and teflon tape is not typically recommended for head bolts as it might interfere with the clamping force. If there's a chance it wasn't suitable, I'd suggest you consider redoing that with a proper sealer designed for that purpose, such as a thread sealant for high-temperature applications. Doing it right may help with any potential leaks.
  • It's always safer to replace head bolts, especially since they are stretch bolts. Even if you think your torque wrench is fine, it could be off. If you decide to replace the bolts, invest in a quality digital torque wrench to ensure you get the proper torque specifications. This might give you peace of mind as well.
  • If you suspect a cracked head, you can do a few tests. A common method is to perform a pressure test on the coolant system (sometimes a mechanic or auto parts store can do this for you). Another option is to use a chemical test for combustion gases in the coolant, which can help determine if exhaust gases are leaking into the cooling system.
  • The broken exhaust bolts can definitely contribute to issues, including performance problems and maybe even affect how the engine runs. Fixing those should be a priority, and it might improve overall performance and reduce potential misfires.
  • I'd hold off on K-Seal for now. It's a temporary fix and won't resolve the root cause. It could also complicate things further down the line if you are planning to fix the head properly.

I think it would be worth taking the time to correct any potential issues now rather than rushing into a quick fix. Your engine will thank you in the long run!
 
  • Like
Reactions: JoeSpit
I should replace bolts, using proper thread sealant. basically i guess ill be doing the entire head gasket again, and might as well drill out exhaust bolts that broke off and re tap.

Now if memory serves me, i do declare that the 100lb bolt that goes through the water jaket was also broke slightly. So i am probably gonna have to drill out that small piece. For that do you think i can get away with using a hand drill with a small bit to break it up or will i have to bore and retap (does that also mean stock bolt wont work there if thats the case?)

i am not getting exhaust in the coolant as far as i can tell. I was getting that when the original head gasket went, and it would also give me coolant in oil. Which i;m not getting currently, and the engine is currently sipping away coolant instead of blowing it out the the reservoir.

My best guess is gonna be that water bolt... that i guess i have to drill out and replace with good sealer
 
I should replace bolts, using proper thread sealant. basically i guess ill be doing the entire head gasket again, and might as well drill out exhaust bolts that broke off and re tap.

Now if memory serves me, i do declare that the 100lb bolt that goes through the water jaket was also broke slightly. So i am probably gonna have to drill out that small piece. For that do you think i can get away with using a hand drill with a small bit to break it up or will i have to bore and retap (does that also mean stock bolt wont work there if thats the case?)

i am not getting exhaust in the coolant as far as i can tell. I was getting that when the original head gasket went, and it would also give me coolant in oil. Which i;m not getting currently, and the engine is currently sipping away coolant instead of blowing it out the the reservoir.

My best guess is gonna be that water bolt... that i guess i have to drill out and replace with good sealer

Take the head to a machine shop to be checked for cracks and surfaced so it is flat. Any head gasket job that doesn't start with that is a waste of money and time. I would go for a valve job at the same time.
 
  • Like
Reactions: JoeSpit and DuckNut
yes i should do the things by the book but im looking fer that cuban engineering/inna pinch/good enough solutions.

any tips for removing a bit of broken bolt without boring the hole bigger.

if i get an orileys replacement head, will that save me the....HEADACHE
 
yes i should do the things by the book but im looking fer that cuban engineering/inna pinch/good enough solutions.

any tips for removing a bit of broken bolt without boring the hole bigger.

if i get an orileys replacement head, will that save me the....HEADACHE

I see. This is more your style?
 
  • Haha
Reactions: JoeSpit
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ radiator