Head Gasket Failure?

Heads, valves, pistons, rods, crankshaft, etc...

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Stanky Leg
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Head Gasket Failure?

Post by Stanky Leg »

My 1991 SS, as some of you know, likes to randomly die. The previous cause has been found and fixed, but I've noticed that while on longer drives it will now die again, while running, but not before sputtering and doing all it can to stay running. If I put it in neutral, it will attempt to fall flat on its face and usually does. I noticed tonight that the passenger side seems to have some coolant, or so it appears (I have minor coolant leaks in the region so it's a little hard to tell) near the head gasket. The coolant looks fine and the motor doesn't over heat. My oil is also fine looking. Upon reaching higher RPMs I can hear a fluttering sound coming from the area of the suspected head gasket.

I would just like to hear some imput. If I have to replace the heads, that's not too bad. Although I'm still holding out, probably foolishly, hope.
'91 Turbo Stanky Leg
Legacy777
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Re: Head Gasket Failure?

Post by Legacy777 »

What was the previous cause to the problem?

From what you described, it sounds like a MAF sensor issue, or at least that's what my car did. I'm not sure a headgasket would cause your specific problems. It's possible you may have more than one.

Have you pulled the plugs to see how they look?
Josh

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1990 Legacy (AWD, 6MT, & EJ22T Swap)
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Stanky Leg
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Posts: 28
Joined: Tue Nov 18, 2008 11:10 pm

Re: Head Gasket Failure?

Post by Stanky Leg »

I did a compression test a few days ago and it seemed to have good numbers. My previously described problem was caused by a bad fuel pump and rather large vacuum leak. The MAF is my next replacement. I agree with you on the possibility of multiple issues.
'91 Turbo Stanky Leg
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