A blown head gasket means major trouble for your diesel engine. Not to mention the costs associated with the repair.
If your head gasket blows, we know you’re going to want to be back up and running as soon as possible. That means you need to know all the parts necessary to get the job done right with minimal downtime.
We can help! We’re taking a look at what causes a gasket to fail and how to select the right head gasket set for your diesel engine.
What Are Head Gaskets?
Head gaskets are vital to combustion in your diesel engine, providing the necessary seal. You’ll find it between the block and cylinder head.
In some cases, the engine block and cylinder head are made out of different materials, which means they expand and contract at different rates.
Your head gasket helps compensate for this difference, maintaining the proper environment even with the different rate of movement in the block and cylinder head.
Head Gasket Materials
Throughout their history, head gaskets have been made of different materials, but usually have a metal interior covered by a composite material, often graphite or asbestos. Gaskets from HHP are asbestos free!
In more recent designs, the gaskets are made of multiple layers of metal and a rubber-like substance. The number of layers depends on which engine manufacturer is producing it.
Multi-layered steel gaskets have been developed recently to offer a more durable solution. They can withstand high performance demands.
They are, however, less forgiving than other gasket materials, needing a completely smooth, even surface to function properly.
How Do Head Gaskets Fail?
As you know, when your head gasket fails, you’ve got a big problem on your hands.
But, a head gasket doesn’t usually just fail on its own. Typically, a blown head gasket is a symptom of a larger issue in your diesel engine.
That’s why you want to be sure to diagnose why the gasket failed. If you don’t fix the root cause, your next gasket will just fail as well.
According to Engine Professional, some things that can cause gasket problems include:
- Poor liner protrusion
- Improper torqueing
- Bad spacer plate
- Bad cooling system
Overheating might also lead to issues with your head gasket, or using a sealant when you don’t need it. Using a sealant when none is called for keeps the gasket from properly seating, which causes uneven wear and increased stress.
You might also have a leak somewhere else in your engine that needs to be repaired.
What Are My Head Gasket Replacement Options?
You have a few options when you’re looking to replace your head gasket, depending on the type of damage you’re experiencing.
Head Gasket
First, you might want to just purchase a new head gasket. This is going to be your least expensive option.
We don’t often recommend this to our customers, though, as you might end up with more issues in the future. To get the repair done right, you’ll often need other gaskets and components.
Not purchasing those additional components up front means you’ll likely end up with more downtime, and possible additional costs for more shipping.
Head Gasket Set
A more complete option is a head gasket set or upper engine kit.
This might be more expensive, but you’re getting everything you need to get the job done the first time.
The exact components in the kit vary between engine models, so be sure to have your engine number ready when you shop.
This option can save you time and money later on.
Lower Engine Gasket Set
The lower engine gasket set doesn’t include a head gasket, but it’s still something you might want to consider if you’re doing a lot of work on your engine.
This is especially true if you’re taking the engine out of the truck or if there’s a leak in the front of the engine.
You’ll also get this set in an out-of-frame rebuild kit, if you’re looking at an extensive repair on your engine.
Head Gaskets From HHP
We don’t want a blown gasket to keep you down for long. We have the parts you need to get your diesel engine back up and running.
Our wide selection of components and fast shipping mean you can get your engine back to work faster.
We want to make sure you’re getting the right parts for the job. Our ASE Certified Staff can answer your questions and help you get to the bottom of your engine problems.
From diagnosis through delivery, we’re Highway & Heavy Parts!
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