1994 Chevrolet S-10 Head Gasket

1994 ALL OTHER MAKES ALL OTHER MODELS
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SYNCRAIT
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 235 POSTS
i was in the process in pulling off the head to look at the gasket and i was informed that unless i see obvious problems leave it on because of the alunimum block used it tends to warp and id have to have it machined.... at the current time i am overhauling it IE all seals and gaskets and i havent witnessed the engine running by myself so i dont know if the gasket it damaged.... so my question is in your opinion am i better to leave the head on and put it all back together taking the chance in it being bad or am i better to take it off seeing how easy it is accessible now.... what is the price to have the head done anyway 1994 S-10 2.2 4cyl 120k
May 9, 2006 at 10:56 AM
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BURRBRIAN
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 158 POSTS
Well, if you have allready started to remove the head keep going and take it off. If you loosened all the bolts you really need a new gasket, anyway. As far as warping from my learnings it is extreme heat that does the warping. Take head off and have it checked to see if there is any warpage. While rebuilding you probably should have the valves done if it's had quite a bit of mileage on the motor. A little extra work now could save a whole bunch later, besides making it run better.Some extra bucks now but well worth it in my opinion. Can't really tell on price as it changes from one part of country to another, still would be money well spent. :P
May 9, 2006 at 11:41 AM
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Suggested Repair

Because the head bolts were already loosened, remove the cylinder head and install a new head gasket. Have the head checked for warpage and consider a valve job given the mileage. Machine-shop cost varies by location.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1994 S-10 2.2 is overhauling seals and gaskets and has started removing the cylinder head. They were warned that an aluminum engine can warp and need machining, and they have not seen the engine run, so they do not know whether the head gasket is bad. They asked whether to leave the head on or remove it while it is accessible, and what head work costs. The expert advised continuing removal because loosened bolts require a new gasket, having the head checked for warpage, and considering valve work at this mileage. Price was said to vary by region but to be worthwhile.

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