Head gasket sealant

[steve66]

Hi Hope you folks can give me a few ideas.I have a single cylinder Suzuki,starts and runs good,but it has a slight head gasket leak.When running it intermittently misses slightly then clears.When you remove the plug you can see a very slight amount of water on it.I know the best and easiest answer is to remove the head and put on a new gasket but i know that even with heat they definately will shear off.Have you guys ever added an automotive head sealing solution to your running up tub, and if so was it succesful.As i say its not a bad leak and apart from an occasional miss its ok.
Regards Steve

 

[robert graham]

Re: Head gasket sealant

I doubt you could seal that head with an automotive type sealer...probably best to go ahead and remove the head and replace that gasket, same time remove all carbon and inspect everything. those head bolts may not give you too much trouble...maybe use a bit of penetrating oil, maybe a bit of heat and ease those suckers right out of there! may want to check head for any warpage and smooth out with a large flat file. good luck!

 

[robert graham]

Re: Head gasket sealant

one other item, when you replace the head, put a dab of anti-seize compound on the threads of those head bolts for future removal.

 

[steve66]

Re: Head gasket sealant

Thanks for the reply Robert.I think i will have to replace the gasket but as its a minor leak i thought i would try to seal it without removal.I always flatten my heads after removal especially single cylinder ones.I have a flat piece of steel and a sheet of wet and dry works well for me.
Cheers Steve