Is Your Tractor Engine Head Gasket Leaking?

Is Your Tractor Engine Head Gasket Leaking?

WHAT IS THE FUNCTION OF A HEAD GASKET?

The primary role of a head gasket is to ensure a secure seal between the engine's head and the engine block.

This vital component is responsible for sealing the oil passages, engine compression, and water passages within the engine. In the unfortunate event of a leak occurring in any of these areas, it indicates that the head gasket has blown. 

 

WHY DO HEAD GASKETS LEAK?

Both the engine block and the head are constructed from steel, which expands as it heats up.

Under normal operating conditions, the engine is designed to accommodate a certain degree of movement without any issues. However, if the engine becomes overheated, the steel components expand excessively, causing parts to move around and become distorted. As a result, the sealing surfaces become uneven, leading to areas of low clamping tension and ultimately causing the engine to develop leaks.

 

COMPRESSION LEAKS

Compression is often the first area to experience a leak. It is subjected to the highest pressure, reaching approximately 500 psi.

Typically, compression leaks into the water ports since the cylinder is surrounded by water to maintain its optimal temperature. The most common indication of a blown head gasket is the presence of bubbles in the radiator. This can be observed during a simple testing procedure outlined below.

When the engine's compression leaks past the metal sealing ring on the head gasket, it burns the gasket material. Consequently, even when the engine cools down, a residual leak remains, necessitating the replacement of the head gasket.

 

OIL AND WATER LEAKS

In some cases, oil can leak into the water, and water can infiltrate the oil supply.

This occurs when there is a failure in the passage between a water port and an oil port.

Additionally, oil or water may leak externally from the engine if a leak develops on the outer side of the gasket sealing area.

 

TESTING FOR A BLOWN HEAD GASKET

To determine whether your engine's head gasket is blown, follow these steps:

  1. Allow the tractor engine to cool completely.
  2. Remove the radiator cap.
  3. Fill the radiator with coolant, but keep the radiator cap off for now.
  4. Start the tractor.
  5. Let the tractor run for approximately one minute.
  6. Observe the radiator for the presence of bubbles.

 If you notice bubbles or if water comes out of the radiator, it is highly likely that you have a blown head gasket.

 

HEAD GASKET REMOVAL

When it comes to removing the head gasket on your Yanmar, it's crucial to proceed with caution. We want to ensure you have a smooth experience, so follow these guidelines carefully. 

  1. Gentle Approach: Instead of using a screwdriver, opt for a razor blade. This will help prevent any accidental scratching or gouging on the head or block surfaces. Any imperfections can lead to potential leaks with the new head gasket
  1. Clean and Dry: Before installing the new head gasket, make sure both the block and head surfaces are thoroughly clean and dry. This step is essential to ensure a proper seal and prevent any contamination that may compromise the gasket's effectiveness.

No Silicone, Please: Avoid using silicone on the head gasket. Instead, reach for a copper gasket coating spray. This specialized spray will provide the necessary seal and enhance the gasket's performance.

 

HEAD GASKET TORQUEING

To ensure a secure fit and optimal performance, pay attention to the following steps when torqueing your head gasket:

  1. Precise Torque: It's crucial to use a freshly calibrated torque wrench to achieve accurate torque values. This will help you achieve the recommended tightness for the head gasket bolts and ensure a proper seal.
  1. Retorque as a Precaution: While not mandatory, it's advisable to re-torque your head gasket after a few hours of use. This extra step serves as a precautionary measure to confirm that the head gasket is properly seated and functioning effectively.

 

NEED FURTHER ASSISTANCE?

If you require any additional help or have questions regarding your tractor engine head gasket, tractors, or any other concerns, we're here to assist you. Please don't hesitate to reach out to your trusted dealer, local mechanic, or e-mail us directly at  info@fabheavy.com . Feel free to inquire about our current selection of new and used tractor supplies as well.

 

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FAB Heavy Parts  Can Help With Your Needs

Welcome to Fab Heavy Parts' online catalog, where you can explore a delightful array of Engine Head Gasket.  We have a diverse selection to cater to your needs. Our knowledgeable parts team is at your disposal, ready to assist you every step of the way.

 

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