help head gasket issues

[rhys-89]

Hi all im currently restoring my 1966 mk1 super deluxe I have cleaned the exterior of the engine and painted it I removed the head re ground the valves and fitted a new copper head gasket I followed the haynes manual for torque setting and head bolt sequence. I am currently trying to start it on the floor in my garage to see weather all is well and good as the car is not ready to receive the engine yet whilst putting a set of jump leads to the engine and starter to turn it over from the battery it appears that water is bubbling at the front of the head on the new gasket what can I do to resolve this issue the head bolts and nuts are a new set from mini spares thanks to all who can help

[sclemow]

Did you get the head skimmed (faced) to be sure that it's flat. It could be warped.

[rhys-89]

No I didnt may need to remove and send it off then

[Spider]

Copper head gaskets are very good, however, if the block and head decks aren't 110% perfect, you'll wish you never saw a copper head gasket!

Maybe try a composite when you reassemble.

[rhys-89]

Thanks will give it a go cheers

['S'-type]

I recently had this problem after replacing a head that I didn't get skimmed. I also used a copper head gasket. I tightened to 40lbs correct sequence etc. On start up I had exactly the same problem as you. Blowing badly from the front edge. I torqued- up to 50lbs. Still a slight weap when running. I then tightened-up the front nuts a smidgin more and it stopped leaking. Been running fine for 2 months 20 miles a day commute. No water loss at all.

This was my daily driver car and I only had a weekend to turn it round so was pretty desperate to get the job done quickly. Maybe in your position you want to 'do it right' before re-fitting your engine.

There was a recent thread similar to this:
viewtopic.php?f=3&t=10160

[rhys-89]

Thanks ill try a re torque and get it up and running see what I have , my starter motor keeps locking up now so somw5hing else to sort

[BRI MK1]

Hi Rhys give me a call i am only in souuthwick 07932164916 cheers Brian.