just outa interest what does cause a head gasket to fail?

i think it is something to do with the cooling system, i.e. if it doesn't get cooled, then it fails.

is this true?

cheers Matt

If it is valve stem seals then you looking at the same amount of work and parts as changing the head gasket. Redlining it wont eat head gaskets.

Check for signs of phyiscal leaks first, and get a compression test done, to see if the rings might be fubar. If the head comes off for the valve stem seals get the bores checked.

hi mate,

so how much am i looking at to get it repaired???

valve stem seals fooked so there oil getting into the cylinders.

Screwing the car will obviously increase oil consumption, so keep it off the redline otherwise the way its going ull be eating head gaskets every day!

since i had mine, a Gsi "L" reg 80,000miles, its had a oil leak which has suddenly just stopped! but i think this is coz i used to top it up too much!

and lately its been drinking the fcuking oil!! :!!! i dunno were it goes but i notice wen i redline my car a lot in a driving session the oil level drops??

wat could be wrong and what problems u guys had??

im using GTX 15-40w oil, non synthetic, and apparently this is what is recommended for the engine in a moderate climate.

please help guys with your views and opinions,cheers

[Edited on 16-08-2003 by MoNkEy MaGiC]