'85 2wd Pickup, coolant leak - head gasket?

Robby1870 · 10-25-2009, 01:41 PM

Last December the truck started blowing white smoke while idling, but pretty much went away while driving it. I thought initially it was flooding, running rough, and the bolts that hold the top air horn on the carb were loose. So I tightened them up (at least a full turn each) and it ran better. After that I decided to do a Weber 32/36 and Offenhauser intake swap. I just finished up the swap this past weekend and went to change the oil before I started it and at least a 1/2 quart of coolant came out first. I filled it with oil and started it, and the temperature rose really quickly, about 3-5 minutes after starting it, it was way past the normal operating temp. Thinking the problem is a head gasket I just ran a compression check and got the following readings: #1: 168 psi #2: 138 psi #3: 143 psi #4: 169 psi The threads on the #2 and #3 spark plugs were wet. Although these readings indicate something is wrong with #2 and #3 I would have expected much lower readings for a blown head gasket. But, I guess if one of the water jackets between #2 and #3 blew out on both sides that would explain this. The timing chain and guides were replaced about 20K miles ago, so I don't think that is the coolant leak. I just wanted some confirmation that the head gasket is the problem before I go take it apart. Thanks for any help.

This ad is not displayed to registered members.
Register your free account today and become a member on Yotatech!

toyotabull · 11-07-2009, 01:07 PM

If you have a lower comp in the center 2 cylinders and water on the plugs, then you have a leaking head gasket or a head problem. I would take the head to the shop and have it checked and put in a new head gasket.

11-07-2009, 01:07 PM	#2 (permalink)
toyotabull Registered User Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Natchitoches, La Posts: 74	If you have a lower comp in the center 2 cylinders and water on the plugs, then you have a leaking head gasket or a head problem. I would take the head to the shop and have it checked and put in a new head gasket. __________________ 85 toyota rancho lift 33 in tires on 15X8 steel 270 lift cam and flat tops Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it, or they're showing up their friends. Again!

Thread Tools	Search this Thread
Show Printable Version Email this Page	Search this Thread: Advanced Search