home about us tech tips faq employment what's new contact
  Home > Tech Tips

 

Tech Tips


Use this comprehensive information library whenever you need helpful hints from car repair professionals. Whether you are a professional or a DIY mechanic, you’re sure to find the tips you need to insure a job well done. Click here to go back to the previous page any time during your search.

 

Honda

Head Gasket Leakage

Honda Accord 1984-87

 

Whenever a 1984-87 Honda Accord overheats, it is very important to check for head gasket leakage. A leaking head gasket will allow combustion gases into the cooling system, which can prevent proper thermostat opening.

 

TO CHECK FOR HEAD GASKET LEAKAGE:

  • Start by bleeding the cooling system. Raise the right front wheel 12 inches or so, turn the heater on full hot, and make sure the thermostat is open.

  • Lower the car and check for overheating.

  • If okay, place a chemical block checker over the radiator fill neck. Add a clear piece of hard plastic tubing to keep coolant out of the tester.

  • If the car is equipped with an automatic transmission, place it in drive and "stall test" the transmission to place an extra load on the engine. The extra load may help you find head gasket leaks you might miss when testing at idle speed. Cars with manual transmission will test at idle.

  • If the tester dye changes color after the stall test, the engine has a blown head gasket

BWC Parts Information:
BWC Head Gasket 035-1800 (1984-85)
BWC Head Gasket 035-1893 (1986-87)


SOURCE: Import Service, August 1995

 

Go back