What is a cylinder head? In order to understand what is the purpose of the head gasket, it is first necessary to begin by explaining what the cylinder head is. It is an essential part of any engine of explosion of which it constitutes the upper part by closing the cylinders. The cylinder head houses the ignition and injection devices as well as the intake and exhaust valves. What is the head gasket used for? It is located between the cylinder head and the head gasket sealer and is intended to ensure perfect sealing of the combustion chambers as well as the cooling and oil circuits. We immediately understand that it plays a primordial role and that we must not neglect its importance because it could cause very serious damage. It is worth noting that the cylinder head gasket is not a conventional plastic gasket. There are several types, the cylinder head gasket can be all-metal or made of an asbestos sheet that will or not sandwiched between two sheets of metal. When should the head gasket be changed? The cylinder head gasket is subjected to both very high pressures and high temperatures, so it may show signs of weakness. However it is not a maintenance that is done at a specific mileage such as a filter change. In theory a cylinder head gasket must be able to last the life of the car. Signs of malfunction of the cylinder head gasket As with all parts of a car, there are symptoms that are good to know in order to anticipate any risk of aggravation. If your engine tends to heat unexplained, a detour to your garage is required. A coolant or lubricant flow at the junction of the engine block and the cylinder head is a very serious sign, as is the appearance of a thin oily layer in the radiator or expansion vessel is what is commonly called "mayonnaise". In this situation, intervention is urgently needed. How to change a cylinder head gasket? If you are a very good handyman and you have a quality toolbox, you can do this yourself. Today you can find very good videos and tutorials on the internet and you can get a new cylinder head gasket in just a few clicks. But do not embark on the adventure if you do not know anything about mechanics, a poorly positioned joint or a poorly tightened cylinder head could have unfortunate consequences, even to the point of engine failure. |