In an engine, gaskets are used in many locations to improve the seal between components. They are designed to prevent the fuel air mixture from leaving the cylinder during combustion and power strokes of the piston and to keep oil from leaving the crankcase.
In some cases there may be a small leak, called an equipment leak. When the leak becomes large, it is referred to as a gross leak or a blowout. The term blowout refers to the catastrophic failure of a joint separated by a gasket. Any bolted connection can be forced apart to the point where the gasket blows out. This can occur when the load has been reduced to where the hydrostatic end force approaches that of the bolt load. The result is an instantaneous and forceful leak of the contained fluid.
Knowing the potential causes of a blown gasket will help you need to prevent this expensive repair.
- Emissions can be reduced and gross leaks avoided by proper design, including gasket selection and assembly and operations of the bolted joints;
- Another important factor is taking care of cooling system issues as soon as symptoms present themselves. Repair coolant leaks, restrictions or malfunctions as soon as they are detected. This will help prevent overheating. If your vehicle does start to climb in temperature while driving, shut it down immediately and have it towed to your trusted repair facility for a diagnosis and repair.
Symptoms of head gasket failure can include:
- Rising temperature gauge;
- Boiling or percolating coolant when the engine is shut off;
- Loss of coolant or coolant consumption and no obvious coolant leaks;
- White smoke billowing from the tailpipe;
- Coolant in your oil.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we recommend having your vehicle checked out as soon as possible. A blown gasket repair can be very costly, so preventing gasket failure is definitely in your best interests.
Gasket King carries thousands of high quality gaskets available for purchase at great prices. Our gaskets exceed all OEM specs and we guarantee 100% satisfaction. We’ve helped thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts with the products they need to ride. All gaskets are high quality made from American premium material.
If you have questions or need help with gaskets feel free to give us a call us directly at 1.702.232.8172 or contact us.
