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I don't want to join a nissan forum, so I hope y'all done mind answering a general automotive question.
Can a new head gasket be used if its already been torqued down once?
My wife's car (1993 Nissan 240sx) blew the head gasket. I replaced it and reinstalled the head, torqued to spec. Unfortunately, I had to swap out the head for a different onw due to a stripped bolt (idle sprocket).
So... can I use the gasket, or should I get another new one?
Thanks.
MM
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The gasket contains a steel crush ring around each cylinder bore, as well as seals around each water passage. I have gotten away with using a NEW gasket that was installed but never run, then reinstalled, but if you are changing heads, and the engine has been running, I would not reuse it. The different head may not have the exact same sealing surfaces on your gasket where the crush ring goes, and could possibly leak. It may not ever leak,but if I was going to try and cheap-out on something, it would be something that involves alot less pain to replace.
Some gaskets require torque-to-yield bolts that must be replaced once removed. Be sure you have the correct info on that for your particular car.
Bottom line: Is the risk of maybe having to swap it again worth to you what you will save by not buying a new gasket?
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Thanks Steve.
Yeah, its the different cyl head that concerned me the most. I don't mind spending the $$ on a new, new one... I was just hoping to be able to get this car back on the road ASAP. None of the local parts houses have this particular gasket in stock, so it needs to be ordered.
In the mean time I've been driving my mustang project to work, etc... and its not really ready daily driver duty. No weax stripping of any kind, but worst of all NO cupholder for my morning commute coffee... ugh.
Thanks again for the reply.
Mike
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cgomate....having worked for Nissan industrial motors corp.as a road mechanic for 8 years and knowing they use automotive engines in many types of equipment....by all means get a new head gasket! There is not enough surface area around combustion chamber to insure a similar "crush" and have no leaks....Like MS said it has worked but these heads are less tolerable.Don't know if it's alum. or iron but I do know nissans are picky.Good Luck
Last edited by drudy2013 (8/07/2013 12:21 AM)
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That's why I came here.... good advice.
New gasket & bolts installed this evening. I'll put the rest of the motor back together tomorrow after work. If things go well, I'll be able to turn my attention back to my mustang project.
Thanks again guys...
mm
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you are welcome....what is your mustang project?
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