Head gasket failure?

I got an overheating problem on the way back from work tonight. When I pulled over I found water pi$$ing out of the radiator. A few weeks back I had another overheating problem through a split in the expansion tank. I was trashing the old girl up the motorway when the radiator went and I think the expansion tank split driving up a long hill in Wales so I’m now beginning to think that I might have a head gasket problem with gases escaping into the cooling system which when the engine is under load so under enough pressure to pop the cooling system.

I suppose the only way to tell is to split the engine and replace the head gasket. I’ve never done a job like this before so I would appreciate any pointers on things to watch out for etc and how long it’s likely to take.

jimb0jumb0 said:

I got an overheating problem on the way back from work tonight. When I pulled over I found water pi$$ing out of the radiator. A few weeks back I had another overheating problem through a split in the expansion tank. I was trashing the old girl up the motorway when the radiator went and I think the expansion tank split driving up a long hill in Wales so I’m now beginning to think that I might have a head gasket problem with gases escaping into the cooling system which when the engine is under load so under enough pressure to pop the cooling system.

I suppose the only way to tell is to split the engine and replace the head gasket. I’ve never done a job like this before so I would appreciate any pointers on things to watch out for etc and how long it’s likely to take.

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Unless you are willing to undertake it yourself or have a helping hand its just making sure u do it methodicly and making sure u note all the timing marks on the diesel pump, cam and crank !! definatly check with a garage and get a head test done ! doing the head isnt too difficult unless its damaged but buget in for a cambelt and tensioner possibly water pump while your there may as well do the lot while u opened her up ... obviously take it is a diesel ? John

Cheers John, I’ll definitely get the head tested first. Have you done a head gasket change yourself?

jimb0jumb0 said:

Cheers John, I’ll definitely get the head tested first. Have you done a head gasket change yourself?

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On many cars but lucky enough so far not my 300tdi disco .... as long as u have a good basic mechanical knowledge you'll be able to do it just dont rush it , take photos of how everything goes onto the car belt positions etc ! you'll save yourself a packet if u do it yourself ... John