6 cylinders and head gaskets

[sermis]

OK I have a M37 project. Motor was locked up so the head was pulled off. Lots of rust in the cylinder from a bad head gasket.
I also have a Willys wagon project. It would only try to run and was getting hot so I finaly pulled the head. Same thing. What is the deal with the 6 cylinder motoers and head gaskets?

Any eisy was to ger head bolts out of the block?

 

[acetomatoco]

those long heads should be retorqued from time to time warm and then cold...most 50 year old head gaskets are not quite like they were when they were new.. Lots of threads from the 6 cyl dual head multifuel users talking of leaking head gaskets, too...not a unique problem... ACE

 

[rdixiemiller]

If they ever overheat and blow the head gasket, it needs to be resurfaced. The old steel shim gaskets also had a tendency to rust through over the years. The modern composite gaskets are much better at sealing than the older types.

 

[hndrsonj]

I 2nd that, the newer head gaskets are much better. Just look at the differences in M35 gaskets-I could not imagine trying to install the ones with the metal flame ring thats separate! Definately worth upgrading if not just for ease of install and reliability.

 

[Capt.Marion]

apparently blowing headgaskets in these things is common. Mine is blown 'tween then #s 1 and 2 cylinders. Also, you should take your head (probably) to a machine shop and have it leveled off or planed or what ever you call it.