Head gasket replacement instructions

JUSTINY17

MEMBER
2006 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
5.3L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
155,000 MILES

I have a pretty nice truck (paid off) which is overheating. I took it to a shop and had them run a block test (because of how fast it was overheating) and it passed. I put in a new thermostat and water pump, flushed the entire system, etc, but the truck was still overheating. I took it back in and now it is failing the block test. I want to do the job myself can you help?

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Sorry to hear that. However, this is not too hard of a job.

Here is a guide that will help with block tests that you are referring too if others need this info in the future:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

Below you will find the process from the manual for both heads as I am not sure which side your issue is on. If you are not able to narrow it down then it is best to do both sides.

I would remove the plugs and see if you have signs of coolant in the engine to determine where the leak is.

You can also pressure test it while doing to look for the leak in the cylinders.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/radiator-pressure-test

Please let us know if you have questions on this.

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