Cylinder head gasket - What do YOU do?

[veeruk]

Having worked on different cars through the years it all depends on the manufacturer recommendations. Some bolts are tightened in different ways and specs. It also depends on the material of the cylinder head, if new bolts are used, etc. What does the manual recommend? I have seen head bolts shear off when reused as they are stretched the first time they are tightened. I'm not sure if it applies to older engines but I always use the recommendations of the manufacturer. I know that I'm not been of much use here but when it comes to cylinder heads I am very cautious.

[daf44]

hi. i would definately do whatever it says on the book.

as veeruk says, they can all be different depending on make/model/iron/alloy heads.

if i remember correctly, old renault engines are all cast iron block and heads.
if you have not got a manual and cannot find anything else then you should be fairly safe tightening in 3 stages 30lb/f.. 45lb/f.. 65lb/f.. after 500miles tighten to 65lb/f again with the engine cold.

you will not find these figures in any book. these were given to me by an old school engineer about 20 years ago and they have not failed me yet.

i only use these in the total absence of official figures which should be used whenever possible.

hope this helps.

paul44

[daf44]

hi all.

i would stick to the one that is actually listed in the 66 manual.

much safer.

paul44

[veeruk]

I would too. Some engines can be modified when they change hands. Peugeot, Citroen and Renault have been using the same engines for their smaller models in the 70's and 80's. When you looked into their manuals it was all slightly different. I guess the engineers like to put their own stamp on them. Stick with the DAF recommendations. I would.