Let’s talk about the head gasket. This crucial gasket protects the combustion chamber from coolant and motor oil. It also provides the perfect condition for compression to build up inside the combustion chamber. Without compression, Accurate Auto advises that the engine will be unable to generate combustion. The head gasket must be replaced immediately if it cracks. Below, are signs that it has.
Low Coolant Level
As we just mentioned, the head gasket prevents coolant and motor oil from leaking into the combustion chamber. When the head gasket cracks, this protection is gone. Consequently, the coolant is free to flow into the combustion chamber where it will be burned with the air and fuel in the cylinders. Naturally, this leak causes the coolant level in the engine to be reduced.
Overheating Engine
Once this happens, the engine is going to start to overheat because it does not have enough coolant circulating through it. Unfortunately, the engine will overheat every time that you drive your automobile. Another thing that will cause the engine’s temperature to rise is the heat released through the crack in the head gasket. The combustion chamber generates a tremendous amount of heat.
In fact, the combination of the low coolant level and the combustion chamber’s heat can cause the engine’s temperature to rise to the point that the coolant boils. You should never drive your automobile when the engine is this hot. Doing so could blow the radiator cap and damage the engine. For example, this excess heat can crack the engine block or the exhaust manifold.
White Exhaust Smoke
Another sign that you have a blown head gasket is white exhaust smoke. When the coolant is burned in the cylinders, it releases smoke that is white in color. You may also see a bluish tint to the smoke because the motor oil will also leak into the cylinders and be burned. Ideally, you should never see exhaust smoke coming out of your tailpipe. It is normally invisible.
Milky-White Motor Oil
Finally, we recommend that you avoid driving your vehicle if the head gasket is cracked. As you have already learned, the engine will produce excess heat that can damage it severely. In addition, once the gasket is cracked, the motor oil and coolant will mix. This will dilute the motor oil and prevent it from being able to protect the engine as it circulates through it.
Accurate Auto in Tigard, Lake Oswego, Hillsboro, or Beaverton, OR, is here to help, so call the shop closest to you to schedule an appointment for a head gasket inspection.