I have a '97 eclispse RS. It's leaking oil. I already brought it to two different shops, and both of them were saying that the leak is from the head gasket. It is going to cost me about $700 dollars to be fixed. They were saying also that the leak may come back after 4-5 yrs. My friend suggested that I buy a performance head gasket and just pay for installation. I don't really know about cars, and I don't want to make quick judgement because I'm a college student which means I'm broke. What should I do? Please reply ASAP because I have to get my car fixed before the new semester starts. Also, let me know where is the trusted DSM mechanic around San Jose, Ca.
#65275, "RE: Head Gasket Oil Leak" In response to Reply # 0
Well you should probably get that fixed once you have the money. You can probably get by for a while with it but our cars are notorious for bad head gaskets. Personally I think that the mechanic is full of shit with his stats there since it really depends on how you drive and maintain the car which will decide how long it lasts. Anyway, if you're new to it I would go ahead and pay the shop or try hard to find someone who knows what they're doing and help.
By the way, how much oil would you estimate you're leaking?
#65276, "RE: Head Gasket Oil Leak" In response to Reply # 1
If you put on another (obsolete) paper composite headgasket, it will leak in 4-5 years. The new MLS (multi-layer steel) headgaskets haven't been known to ever leak when installed properly.
Joel Baldridge, ASE Certified Master Technician, Audi Certified Expert Technician
#65282, "RE: Head Gasket Oil Leak" In response to Reply # 2
If you are pressed for time and haven't worked on engines before, then I would go ahead and pay a shop to do it. Weekend tuners can do it by themselves, but it's definitely not recommended for everyone--since it requires tools and setting timing. The new OEM MLS headgasket shouldn't leak as stated by those mechanics, unless the head is warped. That would require more time and money.
___________ Kon C
"Sometimes, a man has to do what a man has to do."
#65307, "RE: Head Gasket Oil Leak" In response to Reply # 3
its leaking because the corner driver side (i think) headbolt is like 2 notches too long, and after some torque flex it wont seal properly. have them shave down the bolt a few notches or use ARP studs...
#65318, "RE: Head Gasket Oil Leak" In response to Reply # 4 Dec-26-03 02:54 AM by fly1
Originally posted by ajna_star its leaking because the corner driver side (i think) headbolt is like 2 notches too long, and after some torque flex it wont seal properly. have them shave down the bolt a few notches or use ARP studs...
Are you referring to the leak that is most evident in the top right corner of the valve cover? I was under the impression that he is referring to the actual headgasket leak.
___________ Kon C
"Sometimes, a man has to do what a man has to do."
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