Introduction
A blown head gasket can be a real trouble for car owners. It’s an issue that can stop your car in its tracks and leave you stranded on the side of the road. In this article, we’ll discuss methods to fix a blown head gasket without replacing it. These solutions are temporary fixes but can help you keep your car on the road while you address the issue.
Option 1: Use a Sealer
One of the easiest and popular solutions for fixing a blown head gasket temporarily is by using a sealer. It works by sealing the cracks and leaks in your car’s head gasket, preventing further damage. These sealers are available as powder or liquid form, and they are affordable and easy to use.
To use a sealer, follow these steps:
1. Allow your engine to cool down before adding the sealer.
2. Drain the coolant from the radiator and remove the thermostat.
3. Add the sealer to the radiator and fill it with water.
4. Start your engine, and let it run for 20-30 minutes at a high speed.
5. Turn off the engine, let it cool down for at least 3 hours before adding a new coolant.
Option 2: Use Glue
Another common solution for fixing a blown head gasket is by using glue. High-temperature resistant glues like RTV silicone and JB Weld can be used to glue cracks and leaks in the head gasket.
To use glue, follow these steps:
1. Clean the head gasket surface of any debris or gunk.
2. Mix the glue and apply the mixture directly to the cracks or leaks.
3. Let the glue dry completely, and make sure it’s dry to the touch.
4. Reassemble the parts and refill the coolant.
Option 3: Use a Copper Spray
Copper spray is another solution to fix a blown head gasket. It’s a spray-on gasket sealer that can seal up leaks and cracks on the head gasket. Copper has excellent thermal conductivity, and it can withstand high temperatures, making it an excellent solution for head gaskets.
To use a copper spray, follow these steps:
1. Allow your engine to cool before spraying the copper spray.
2. Remove the spark plugs and the radiator cap.
3. Cover the spark plug holes with old rags.
4. Spray the copper spray evenly across the head gasket surface.
5. Let the copper spray dry for about an hour before reassembling the parts.
Option 4: Use Steel Seal
Steel Seal is a specially designed solution to fix blown head gaskets. It’s a chemical solution that circulates through the engine, sealing the cracks and leaks in the head gasket. This can be a more expensive option, but it provides a long-lasting solution.
To use Steel Seal, follow these steps:
1. Allow your engine to cool down.
2. Drain the coolant from the radiator.
3. Pour the Steel Seal product into the radiator and refilling it with water.
4. Start your engine and let it idle for about an hour.
5. Turn off the engine and let it cool for at least 24 hours before driving again.
Option 5: Replace the Coolant
One of the reasons why the head gasket can get damaged is contaminated coolant. Regular maintenance of the coolant system can help prevent head gasket failure. If your head gasket issue is due to a coolant-related problem, replacing the coolant can be a quick fix.
To replace the coolant, follow these steps:
1. Allow your engine to cool down.
2. Drain the coolant from the radiator.
3. Fill the radiator with a fresh coolant mixture.
4. Run the engine and check the new coolant mixture.
Option 6: Adjust the Timing
Engine timing can also lead to blown head gaskets, especially if the engine is running too hot. Adjusting the engine timing can help address the issue.
To adjust the timing, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the battery.
2. Locate the timing belt or chain.
3. Use the timing light to adjust the engine timing.
4. Connect the battery and start the engine.
Conclusion
A blown head gasket can be a significant and costly issue for car owners. However, there are temporary solutions to the problem before taking the car to a mechanic. Using sealers, glue, copper spray, or Steel Seal can provide a quick fix, but it’s essential to speak with a mechanic to diagnose the root problem. Replacing the coolant or adjusting the engine timing can also fix the issue. We advise readers to try these methods before opting for costly replacements.
