Head Gasket!

Firstly I would like to thank everyone here who has given me lots of advice on previous questions :-)

Unfortunately it now seems the head gasket has gone, as after I finally managed to get the bonnet open I found milky white oil had come out of the oil filler cap, and on start up steam comes from the breather pipe that goes onto the exhaust manifold.

The engine still runs fine, and has not overheated.

Looking at it whilst its a big job, taking the head off looks reasonably straight forward, and I can renew the cambelt whilst I'm doing it.

But is it reasonably straight forward?
And do I need to consider anything else, ie will there be any other damage?

[Mike_Brace]

Very starightforward job. Have head skimmed though. We reckon on 2.5 hrs max for the job so yuou should be able to strip in 1/2 day and refir in 1/2 day. You will need good quality 6 (flat) sided sockets for exhaust manifold nuts (13mm) and head bolts (14mm + good breaker bar). If you run into any problems feel free to call 01407 832290.

Mike

[Clifford Pope]

I've had major problems in the past getting the exhaust manifold nuts off. Mine have always been so corroded away that they were barely recognisable as nuts, 6-sided or otherwise.
I found the answer was either to hammer on an old socket several sizes too small, or use one of those Gator sockets. Worth spending a lot of time clearing away corrosion etc first. If you can chisel away the washer it lets whatever socket you are using get a better overlap.

If the head is stuck, put the plugs back in and turn the engine on the starter.
Pay particular attention to sealing the valve cover when you put it back together. The sharp angle where the gasket turns up over the bearing blocks seems to be particularly difficult to seal. It's worth giving it a bit of a nip first, rather than just tightening the nuts down. I have always used gasket cement on one face and grease on the other - that way next time you take it off, eg to recheck the head bolt torques after a few hundred miles, it will separate in one piece.

Thanks once again for you help and advice!

Unfortunatly my love affair since my early teens with the 240GLT has come to an abrupt end after eventually buying one and owning it for just 1 month.

Whilst I am able to carry out servicing and the easier mechanical jobs I dont have the time or knowledge to carry out the major works now required on my 240GLT, and its not worth spending the money paying someone elses labour rates to have it done.

Therefore my 240GLT is now for sale.

Please see the for sale section for further details, or e mail me at gareth.turner@oneaccount.com.

Once again many thanks to you all.

[LankyTim]

Is it an estate?

Dont give up on it just yet, a garage should charge about £250 for a headgasket and head skim. If the car is in good condition it will have years left in it.

Tim

Its a saloon.

Been offered some money for the interior, so if anyone wants a VERY clean and rust free shell get in touch.

[LankyTim]

Dont let it die for want of a HG!

You can source a replacement engine for £50, and get someone to fit it for another £50

[morsing]

I just can't believe you're selling this??!?!?!?

[LankyTim]

*no room for more volvos
no room for more volvos
no room for more volvos
no room for more volvos
no room for more volvos
no room for more volvos
no room for more volvos
no room for more volvos
no room for more volvos*

Have you still got your volvo?