Head Gasket Replacement Frequncey

[Wes]

Going through the PO notes and paperwork i see, what to me is, an alarming frequency for Head Gasket failure/replacement. Numbers show its the original engine and its done 72,000 miles. Seems he's had it done every 2-3 years or about every 6,000 miles. This cant be normal can it? Thanks

[myoldjalopy]

No, it only really needs replacing when it blows. I wouldn't replace a head gasket as part of routine maintenance. Its possible, however, that the PO thought it was a routine task. Who knows? Alternatively, the car may have been blowing gaskets frequently due to some reason, presently unknown.
If the car is running OK I would leave the head gasket undisturbed until/if any blown gasket symptoms may arise..

[Wes]

Thanks. Thats what i thought leave well alone. But then i thought that maybe Gaskets these days were of poorer quality. Also wondered if its worth fitting a temperature gauge?. Are there simple to fit aftermarket kits out there?

[geoberni]

Briefly looking at your past posts you car is a '64, so I assume a 1098 engine, therefore it should have a blanking plug in the head near No1 Plug.
It's therefore simple to connect up an electrical gauge.
Best to buy as a kit, to ensure the gauge and sensor are compatible.



Edited to correct typo...

[Wes]

Yes a 1098. Ah that's good to know.

Ive subsequently found that ESM do a "kit" for £60. https://www.morrisminorspares.com/elect ... y-p1238407

But they are out of stock

[Wes]

Im guessing this is the Blanking Plug in question?

[philthehill]

Correct
The transmitter/sender just screws into the head and it is sealed by a machined seat at the bottom of the threads on both the transmitter/sender and the head. It may be a good idea to clean up the head seat with a small wire brush before fitting the transmitter/sender. There is no gasket/copper washer fitted to the transmitter/sender shown in the link.

[Wes]

Saw the copper washer sold separately!

Just relalised i should probably have posted this thread in the mechanical section Oops! Thanks anyway chaps

[olonas]

Re gasket longevity. I removed the head 24 years ago, only to decarbonise (others might disagree) and check the valves, guides and seats. Minimal valve seat lapping needed, guides good.
Obviously used a new gasket and all torqued to specified with a follow up after 100 miles.
So in answer to "frequency", subjectively 24 years and it was intact on removal then.
I fitted an ESM temp. gauge kit some time ago - positive earth. I see they don't list it now. Take care with the blanking plug, it can be tight.

[Wes]

Thanks for the info