First stop at this sight - so hello to all. I've been searching around for my topic, which wasn't hard to find in the "overheating" category.
Maybe someone has the insight I'm looking for. Here's my story:
I Just reserected a '92 Cherokee (192K, 4.0, 3" lift, 31's) from a friend that just moved to town. The jeep sat for over a year, and it needs a few things, but nothing major (exhaust, gas tank leaks at seam, leaf springs).
To the point, it was overheating badly, into the red. No "check engine" lights came on. Did the usual inspections, changed the t-stat, flushed the coolant system - nothing helped. Took it to a mechanic friend to do a chemical test to see if HG is blown (hydrocarbons?), and sure enough, the test was positive.
Being capable enough (and no money), I decide to go at it myself. I've now got the head off, and there is no visible signs of HG failure. In fact, it looks pretty darn good for 192K. Now, I'm no expert in this area, but research tells me it should be readily apparent where the HG failed (a swell, or warpage, etc.)
Anyone know how accurate the chemical tests are? It's not that I don't believe my buddy mechanic - he knew he wasn't getting the job anyway, but now I've got my doubts. What other signs show a faulty gasket? A bad radiator wouldn't bring a positive test?
Any other suggestions? Hopefully, I've taken the top of the engine apart for a reason!! If not, at least it's been interesting.
Thanks in advance.
Maybe someone has the insight I'm looking for. Here's my story:
I Just reserected a '92 Cherokee (192K, 4.0, 3" lift, 31's) from a friend that just moved to town. The jeep sat for over a year, and it needs a few things, but nothing major (exhaust, gas tank leaks at seam, leaf springs).
To the point, it was overheating badly, into the red. No "check engine" lights came on. Did the usual inspections, changed the t-stat, flushed the coolant system - nothing helped. Took it to a mechanic friend to do a chemical test to see if HG is blown (hydrocarbons?), and sure enough, the test was positive.
Being capable enough (and no money), I decide to go at it myself. I've now got the head off, and there is no visible signs of HG failure. In fact, it looks pretty darn good for 192K. Now, I'm no expert in this area, but research tells me it should be readily apparent where the HG failed (a swell, or warpage, etc.)
Anyone know how accurate the chemical tests are? It's not that I don't believe my buddy mechanic - he knew he wasn't getting the job anyway, but now I've got my doubts. What other signs show a faulty gasket? A bad radiator wouldn't bring a positive test?
Any other suggestions? Hopefully, I've taken the top of the engine apart for a reason!! If not, at least it's been interesting.
Thanks in advance.