Head work prices/estimations

[talontsi01]

Some of you may have already read my previous thread about this, but if you haven't: http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=136407

There is white smoke coming out the tailpipe. I know this is gonna be a head problem, but haven't got a chance to look at the car. So...my question is, what are some of your guy's experiences with a head problem?

Anyone have prices for a blown headgasket?

Any of you replaced a head gasket yourself?

How can you tell if the head is cracked/warped?


I only ask these questions because if my problem is gonna cost me bigtime, then I might just part out my car and sell it. BTW, I'm going to pick up my car and trailer it home tomorrow.

 

[DSMeclipse4G63]

do a compression test if that fails then you have a head or head gasket problem. If it checks out fine then you have a cooling system problem, and a turbio can cause white smoke but it would need to burn ALOT of coolant to make your car over heat.
Andrew

 

[talontsi01]

Ok. Thank you.


Has anyone here had a headgasket or entire head replaced at a shop? If so, what were your prices.

 

[Tallen]

You check the warpage with a straight edge and a feeler gauge. A headgasket job should cost upwards of $400...at least.

 

[97spydagst]

Its easy to do your self. Around 50 for the h/g and do the labor your self. I wouldnt part out a car for a h/g also im sure someone lives by you that could help you out.

 

[Nerfherder]

If you're going to part it out anyway, you might as well take it apart and see if you can figure out how to fix it. It's times of desperation that you learn the most. If your head needs machining, it will probably cost around $500.

 

[97spydagst]

or just buy a new good used head for 150 shipped!

 

[talontsi01]

or just buy a new good used head for 150 shipped!

where?

 

[talontsi01]

Also, I'm looking through my chiltons manual right now, and there is no direct info on replacing head gaskets or checking for cracks or warps in the head. Does anyone have a link to a how-to or any write up's on this subject?


Thanks,
Jim