Peugeot 306 (1993 - 2001) - 1997 1.4 Diagnosis of headgasket problem (photos) | Technical matters | Back Room Forum

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Sun 18 Jan 2009 02:04

1997 1.4 Diagnosis of headgasket problem (photos) - Foxy0-0

Hi All,

This is my first post so hopefully will receive some good feedback!

I recently bought a Peugeot 306 1.4 LX petrol Only done 46K on a 1997. However, in haste I failed to check rad integral expansion tank and later noticed it was full of brown mayonnaise.
I flushed the coolant system and WOW the sludge that came out was unbelievable.
The engine appeared to be using oil and then I noticed an oil leak at the camshaft end at base of cylinder head by the corner of gasket. Anyway got hold of Haynes manual and pulled the head off today.
I have some pics I will email them to anyone familiar with this problem/diagnosis! who is knowledgeable on blown gaskets. N.B. No evidence of water in oil just other way round.

Many thanks in hopeful anticipation,

Foxy 0-0

Edited by Pugugly on 18/01/2009 at 17:26

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Sun 18 Jan 2009 06:36

1997 1.4 Diagnosis of Headgasket pics - Pugugly

Why don't you upload your pictures to a sharing site such as Photobucket etc ? People may be reluctant to share their e-mail addresses publicly.

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Sun 18 Jan 2009 14:11

1997 1.4 Diagnosis of Headgasket pics - Foxy0-0

Thanks for your advice. The pics can be seen here!!!

picasaweb.google.com/foxy804/CylinderheadAndGasket#

picasaweb.google.com/foxy804/Head2#

Technical replies gratefully received.

Many thanks

Foxy0-0

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Sun 18 Jan 2009 14:19

1997 1.4 Diagnosis of Headgasket pics - injection doc

the small seal within the head gasket for the oil gallery is rather prone to deteriation over some years & allows oil to leek into the water curcuit. When i tried enlarging the photo I needed to look at the picture was out of focus.
I would have the head machined & fit new quality gasket & keep flushing cooling system out over several weeks.
Washing powder " lux flakes" is quite good as it doesn't lather up. Bleach is best but dangerous if you are not really careful with drainng.

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Sun 18 Jan 2009 14:32

1997 1.4 Diagnosis of Headgasket pics - injection doc

Make sure dowls are located properly & are still a snug fit. They can rot or wear & prevent head from proper alignment & most important ensure all the bolt holes are blown out before reasembly. Any oil or water down a bolt hole could cause the bolt to hydraulic & split the block or give you an incorrect tourque reading.

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Sun 18 Jan 2009 17:08

1997 1.4 Diagnosis of Headgasket pics - Foxy0-0

Thanks for your reply injection Doc, how much bleach approx.y would you add to the system? I have also noticed crumbly dried deposits near the water pump sprocket. Do you think I need to replace anything here? I have included a couple of pics. If you can't tell if the gasket has actually worn near the oil gallery could I post another picture that would be in focus? I'm not exactly sure where on the gasket you mean though? I did think about having the head pressure tested but this would be £35.00.
Thanks

Foxy0-0

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Sun 18 Jan 2009 20:51

1997 1.4 Diagnosis of Headgasket pics - injection doc

the deposits are probably dried coolant, indicating a weak water pump. I would certainly replace.
It always pays to have a head pressure tested because there is no safe way of knowing its 100% OK. If you spend £35 & you still have a problem it will cost you a whole lot more + a pressure test. If a jobs worth doing then do it once & do it right. I used to use a bottle of the well known stuff beginning with D. Under no circumstances take the rad cap off when even warm & use eye protection when draining & flush thourghly.

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