Here's an easy diagnosis...
If the coolant water is leaking thru the headgasket into a combustion
chamber, the spark plug in that chamber will be VERY clean. Pull the
plugs after a drive and check the plugs. If one is noticeably cleaner,
that's leaking headgasket evidence. At that point (engine hot) you can
leave the plugs out and see if you notice steam coming from the plug
hole as water drips into the cylinder. Using a flashlight, you may be
able to see the water.
I know it's frustrating to take the plunge to pull the head if you're
not 100% sure... But take heart, the head will probably be ok and you
just need a new gasket! Have a shop check for warpage anyway. I'd be
tempted since the head is off to have the valves and guides checked
also..
Clark
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Visit me at: http://members.aol.com/cwnicholls
>----------
>From: Jason Burden[SMTP:jason@clinic.net]
>Sent: Thursday, August 14, 1997 10:10 AM
>To: triumphs@autox.team.net
>Subject: My last shot...
>
>
>I am at my wits end with my overheating issue. I have a 79 spitfire. Is
>there any way (im a novice so be easy on me) to visually see or find out if
>my head gasket is bad, or the head is actually warped? Local experts (lol)
>seem to be pointing the finger in that direction.
>
> Thanks for everyones help..
> Jason
>
>
>** ** ** ** ** ** **
>Jason Burden
>CC. Net
>jason@clinic.net
>http://www.clinic.net/users/jason/
>
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