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Old 03-12-2026, 11:19 AM   #35
Y-Blockhead
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Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Redondo Beach, CA
Posts: 7,288
Default Re: Time for a head gasket...

Quote:
Originally Posted by Trapdoor2 View Post
Ok, I received my package from Snyder's...and problem solved.

Rule #1: do the quick and easy first: now having the wrench to work around the Distributor, I re-torqued the head (in the proper sequence). Not a single nut was at 55in/lb. Some got a few degrees of rotation, some got more.

Topped up the radiator, checked the oil and cranked her up, no steam. Let her get to temp (I have one of those cheap IR thermometers with the laser), no steam. Took her around the block, no steam. Stopped, eyeballed everything, rechecked all the fluids and put 10mi on her just looping around the neighborhood. Got her back in the driveway and temps were 200F at the rear of the head, 180F at the front. 145F in the upper hose and 130F at the radiator cap. And...my moto-meter isn't working...

Looks like that took care of the problem! At least I now have a head gasket in reserve (and studs, nuts, etc.).
After it cools down, recheck the torque. My Motometer has never been more than a decoration. I have a SW mechanical temp gauge with 270° sweep, easier to read, IMO

oops, I was going to post a picture but looks like Flickr is down.

Edit: Flickr back up.

Last edited by Y-Blockhead; 03-12-2026 at 12:22 PM.
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