No matter if you are a rookie or an experienced mechanic, mistakes do happen. Maybe your mind isn’t in the right place or maybe you were distracted when putting on that last valve cover. Whatever the reason, improperly installing a gasket will result in a leak almost every time.>
Highway & Heavy Parts is dedicated to giving you all the knowledge and parts needed for a simple and stress-free install. It is the little details that have helped us become one of the best suppliers of aftermarket and OEM parts for your hard-working diesel engine.
Most Common Diesel Engine Gasket Installation Mistakes
We have put together a list of the most common gasket installation mistakes that can be made when installing a new gasket. They include, but are not limited to:
Failure To Check For Damage Or Warpage
This applies more to the components and not the gasket itself but is just as important. For example, an engine block that has overheated and blown a head gasket can become warped, therefore a perfect seal between the gasket and engine is no longer possible.
The same thing goes for damaged components. Some cracks/damage can be seen with the naked eye, while others, such as hairline cracks, cannot. Even though everything looks fine, coolant or oil can still get between the surface and gasket.
Incorrect Parts
It should go without saying, but using the wrong gasket can cause a whole host of problems. From leaks to more serious damage, having the wrong gasket is nothing but trouble. As tolerances have gotten tighter and diesel engines have gotten more complex, creating a perfect seal has become a necessity.
Making it “fit” is no longer an option. To ensure the proper operation and optimal performance, a correct fitting gasket is vital. Have a look at our entire lineup of gaskets here!
Debris In The Bolt Holes
Cleanliness is next to godliness, right? Keeping dirt and debris from contaminating the surface is crucial to have a tight and leak-free seal. Something as simple as plugged bolt holes will end up causing stress and every swear word known to be used if the work area is not fully cleaned.
In addition to causing leaks, plugged bolt holes can cause further damage by potentially causing stress cracks from the added torque used by the mechanic when tightening everything back up. Always make sure your workers are and components are as clean as the day they were made.
Improper Finish
A little more time spent on prep can help reduce costly, future issues. Having a proper finish is just as important as a clean one. The gasket and surface it meets must be compatible with one another. For example, if the block and the gasket material are not congruent, leaks are bound to happen with time.
Incorrect Placement
Just as important as the finish is the position of the gasket. That’s right! Simply installing one upside down will create an improper seal. It is done more often than one might think. Always double-check your work before finishing up.
This rookie mistake could cost you a lot of lost time, nerves, and of course money. Lastly, make sure everything is aligned properly. It could help prevent immediate or long-term issues from popping up.
Incorrectly Installed Bolts And Fasteners
The way fasteners are installed will directly affect your gaskets and the likelihood of them failing. Following the correct sequence for tightening is crucial if you want the gasket to seat properly and provide years of trouble-free service.
It is also important to note that some bolts or fasteners will need to be replaced after every use. They are commonly referred to as “stretch bolts”. Contrary to their name, this particular type of bolt or stud is commonly used on engine heads as they tend to keep their shape, even with repeated temperature swings an engine head is subjected to.
Poor Sealant
Using sealant may seem like the easy way out. It sounds like the best way to make sure there are no leaks. However, manufacturers discourage this practice as it can cause significant problems. Sealants should never be used as a way of getting a gasket to stop it from leaking. As an alternative, you should find out why the gasket isn’t doing its job in the first place.
Improper Clamping
Clamping load refers to the force being exerted on the gasket. If the force is uneven, a leak is much more likely to occur. Keep in mind that putting too much force on a gasket can also cause unwanted leaks.
Moreover, not torqueing down a bolt or fastener to manufacturer specifications can also cause improper clamping and potential problems with leaks. When in doubt, it is best to leave the work up to the professionals.
Final Words
Although changing a gasket may seem easy depending on the application, it can also be the source of numerous headaches. Highway & Heavy Parts is here to make sure you get the correct advice and right parts for your diesel engine. From a simple o ring to a complete head gasket kit, we got you covered!
Do you have any questions about gasket installation kits? Our ASE-certified staff is here to help. Give us a call at INSERT CORRECT PHONE NUMBER HERE or request a quote online today! INSERT CORRECT QUOTE HERE.
