Problems after headgasket install-

[4G63dsmpwr]

Hey guys. I just put a headgasket on my 90 AWD yesterday - fun experience.

Anyway, when we started it up, the lifters sounded louder than normal, and it was defiinately noticeable. This is my first problem. Plenty of oil pressure. I opened the oil cap - and the cams look like they're getting the right amount as usual.

Second problem: I dont think my car is cooling properly. The temp guage inside the car stays right under the middle mark, like it always has. I haven't driven it for mre than 30min though.

No smoke from the exhuast at ALL, crystal clear - its not too cold around here either right now. When I shut the car off, and check under the hood I hear like gurgling/hissing sound from the thermostat housing area. Underneath the hood just feels HOT...?

I'm going to grab a new radiator cap now, but this is what I've replaced because of this BS:

Just rebuilt the head, by a reputable machine shop. Put a new headgasket on it, did leak down test, every thing checked out perfectly. Brand new radiator/hoses/thermostat/gasket/clamps - no leaks in engine bay... No coolant on ground. Not sure if its losing coolant - still hot now, will check in a bit and let you guys know.

I dont know what it could be! The top radiator does get hot though, so does that mean the T-Stat is opening properly, and its getting flow through the system?

Any help/info on these two problems would be great. Thanks very much.

 

[marcmsj]

if your coolant temp is right under the middle mark, i wouldn't worry about it. if it goes past that though, then have reason to start looking around. as for the ticking, could be just the lifters. sure you put enough oil back in the engine? just because your pressure is where it should be, doesn't mean that there's the right amount of oil.

 

[4G63dsmpwr]

I checked the il via the dipstick and its full - would that be alright?

Thanks.