Weeping head gasket

[Michael M]

I just found that my head gasket is weeping at the rear of #4 cylinder. My first thought was to wait until the end of the 'driving season' before pulling the head. But I'm wondering if I'm inviting trouble by waiting.

It's not a large leak and loss of coolant is negligible, but after a run I do feel the moisture at the head / block seam. (The peeling engine paint here is what first caught my eye.)

What say you guys: winter project or get on it now?

 

[Gary WA]

Try retorque for now if running ok!

 

[J Franklin]

Add some ALUMASEAL and check/re-torque as necessary. Make sure it is only a leak to the outside.

 

[Michael M]

Thanks guys. I'm not seeing coolant in the oil, so I feel it's just weeping to the outside.

 

[Mitch//pa]

try retorquing and dont be in a hurry to put fix it in a can in.. i would replace the gasket before doing that especially if you have a marginal radiator

 

[Duffy1]

Had same problem . Retorqued head , still leaked ,removed antifreeze,still leaked, added distilled water with old fashion Bars Leak solved problem .

 

[Michael M]

I'm placing the order for the head gasket today. Guess I'll tackle that in the next few weeks.

Thanks for the advice guys!

 

[J Franklin]

If you plan on pulling the head be prepared to plane the head and block surfaces as well as fix any other problems you might find. I think most head gaskets may weep a bit. Your new gasket may do the same. Try ALUMASEAL, it is a powdered aluminum that will not plug your radiator and should cure your weep. If it is not entering the cylinders it is just cosmetic anyway.

 

[Ed in Maine]

Don't forget to use Permatex Head Gasket Sealer that comes in a spray can. Put on both the head and the block and both sides of the head gasket. Ed

 

[Michael M]

I've arranged for the head to be shaved. I was also planning to use the FelPro copper gasket with copper spray. With several coats of copper spray I should'nt need any other Permatex, right?