head gasket trouble

joeblow · #1 08-07-2009, 12:54 PM

I took the top off my engine to check the spark plug's flushness, and since I put it back on it has been sputtering out a small amount of fuel when it runs. is there a specific way to put the head gasket on? it seems to be a square. It is slightly indented on one side, presumably from being installed, does this need to be up or down?

Finfan · #2 08-07-2009, 01:02 PM

Head gaskets generally should be replaced when you open up a used engine. You could try some head gasket sealer and see if that helps.

Edit: You should also be sure you torqued the bolts evenly when you put it back! Otherwise you can warp the head!

**Bikeguy Joe** · #3 08-07-2009, 02:05 PM

Where is the fuel sputtering from? If you re-install the head gasket the same way it came out, it will usually be fine.

Mike Hunt · #4 08-07-2009, 10:53 PM

im having the same problem, when i start it i can sometimes feel a bit of air blowing from a corner of the headgasket, but after 30 seconds or so it stops. the bike still runs reasonably well though. i think one of my headbolts is stripped.

it was a lot worse before, but i took off the cylinder head and used some rtv sealant, but theres is still a small leak, after every ride i get a few drops of the gas coming out through a corner of the headgasket.

does anyone know of a surefire fix?

**Bikeguy Joe** · #5 08-08-2009, 07:33 AM

Yes, replace the broken stud and install a new head gasket.

Pablo · #6 08-08-2009, 09:23 AM

Agree with Joe, brief steps:

1) Remove head and lap sand (wet/dry paper on glass)

2) Replace studs

3) Install new head gasket, and torque appropriately

roxrcool · #7 08-09-2009, 07:53 PM

I just put together a motor from a couple of busted up motors. put in a new base gasket
(dry, no sealant) and a new head gasket. both motors would roll just fine pushing it with
the clutch out. As soon as I mounted the motor, I knew it would fire right up. compression
was great. All I did was use some scotch-brite to clean up the base and the head, and
there is not a single drop of anything leaking. I think the sealer is what is causing the problems
that people are experiencing; or maybe just too much sealant. just my two cents

so happy
to be back on my motor bike after a month or two with it being down.

ratty · #8 08-09-2009, 08:14 PM

I have used this on head gaskets several time with success, should be available at most auto parts stores. I used it in many different automotive applications, so I would think it should be great for these little Chinese motors.

http://www.permatex.com/products/Aut...ve_Sealant.htm

Pablo · #9 08-09-2009, 08:16 PM

Neat stuff. I have successfully used Aluminum filled spray paint with no issues.

ratty · #10 08-09-2009, 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pablo

Neat stuff. I have successfully used Aluminum filled spray paint with no issues.

Pablo, I have wondered many a time if it were not just thick gold spray paint!!