Checking Cracked Block 3.0

[Shelby Ladner]

I am checking my Volvo (GM) 3.0 4 cyl for cooling system/cracked block. I pressurized the system and could hear air escaping. I sprayed soapy water around head and found air is escaping around head gasket on port side. I have the exhaust/intake manifold off and putting air into thermostat housing (via water pickup hose from outdrive). I just recently had the head reworked-valve grind and resurface. I followed SM procedures for torque and sequence. I'm not sure where to start. I used a Sierra head gasket-all stainless looking and I did not use any kind of sealing compound (as Sierra recommends). I'm guessing maybe I should remove head, check block surface, and use a better head gasket???? Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

Ayuh,... You're Sure it's at the headgasket, 'n not abit below it on the block,..??

If it IS the headgasket, 'n you just had the head resurfaced,...
I'd be questioning whether the Block has a flatness issue in that area...

 

[Shelby Ladner]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

Bondo, I'm sure it is coming from the head/block area because I have the e/i manifold removed. Does the engine need to be operated/ warmed to operating temp to "seat" the head gasket? Maybe I installed head gasket wrong?

 

[Don S]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

Did you put sealer on the head bolts before you installed them?

 

[Shelby Ladner]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

I did not put sealer on all of the bolts. I did notice while cleaning threads that the front port side hole would spin the water pump when I bottomed my wire brush out so I put sealer just in that location.

 

[Don S]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

I ask about the HEAD BOLTS, did you use sealer on the head bolt threads when you installed the head?.

 

[Shelby Ladner]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

No, I only put sealer on the front nport side head bolt.

 

[achris]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

The head bolt holes (in the block) are open the the water jacket. If you didn't use sealer on ALL the bolts you will get a leak up through the threads.... It will look like a head gasket leak....

 

[Bondo]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

The head bolt holes (in the block) are open the the water jacket. If you didn't use sealer on ALL the bolts you will get a leak up through the threads.... It will look like a head gasket leak....

Ayuh,... It might be worth the shot to pull each 1, seal it, 'n reinstall it to torque...
Then try it...
1 at a time won't disturb the headgasket...

 

[fat fanny]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

Also bring the engine up to operating temp then re-torque the head bolt's after it cools down to ambiant temp.

 

[Shelby Ladner]

Re: Checking Cracked Block 3.0

Thanks for the suggestions. I will apply the sealer to the head bolt threads and retest.