How to Install a New Head Gasket

Installing a new head gasket in your vehicle's engine involves many steps in the process. The process, parts and tools required also depend on the type and size of engine your vehicle has. Make sure you are familiar with each step of the process, as outlined below, before starting the task.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Remove all of the components necessary on the way to the head gasket. This should include a long list of parts. Treat each one of them with care along the way. Drain appropriate fluids. Consult your vehicle repair manual for the correct removal of these parts.

2. Take out the cylinder head bolts and lift the head off the engine. If it sticks to the engine, insert a prybar into the exhaust port and pry gently to break the seal. Remove the old head gasket and clean the empty surface of the head where the new gasket will go. This is an extremely important step, as a contaminated surface will not allow for a tight seal, causing problems and leaks down the road.

3. Inspect the head for damage before installing a new head gasket to ensure the head itself does not need replacing. Seat the new gasket onto the head where you removed the old gasket. Do this carefully to ensure it fits around all of the different components, paying specific attention to where the cam journals go.

4. Push the corners of the gasket in firmly. If it does not reach all the way to form a tight seal, use RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanant). Do this for the corners and one each side of the cam journals. Before applying the RTV, make sure the surface it is going on is clean and dry or it will not set properly.