IH3444
Veteran Member
- Joined
- Jan 10, 2004
- Messages
- 2,101
Sounds like it's just the head gasket. Pull head, not a big job. Have head checked for straightness. 0.002" is most likely with in spec. Also check engine block straightness. I'm sure it's OK, but still should check it. Don't throw out old head gasket. There should be some marking on it to tell it's thickness. This is important to maintain proper compression ratio. If you head is resurfaced due to out of straightness, then you will need to take that number, of material removed and find the correct gasket thickness you need. It may not have changed. If both the block and head are found to be straight, then just a simple head gasket replacement is necessary. Be absolutely sure to clean both surfaces to perfection. Install the head gasket, and once again be sure to properly torque the head down, with the EXACT sequence pattern. This is usually starting with a lower torque number, and progressively going up in steps to the final torque. Good luck, and I'm sure you will be fine with just a checking, and a new head gasket.
