Kevin,

Leaks in the seals at the top of the piston--the REAL head gasket, as
the rubber one would more properly be called a water jacket gasket--
will probably be obvious. Take a look for sure. If you can't see
discoloration or deterioration, take the heads to a shop and have
them check the heads. Of course they can't find a leak between two
materials that are no longer joined, but they know what to look for
and can check the head for cracks.

If it were my engine, I'd buy new heads after having such a problem.
It might have to sit there for a while, though. They're expensive.

Jim

On Jun 11, 2006, at 11:29 AM, kevin obrien wrote:

> Hello All:
>
> Awhile back my 1990 2.1L was plagued by overheating
> problems and seemed like it was getting gasses in the
> coolant.
>
> I never resolved the issue...just pulled the engine
> and replaced it with another I located.
>
> In addition to a head gasket leak are there also seals
> at the top of the pistons that can cause this. If
> so...what are they called?
>
> How can you tell if it is the head gasket or these
> other seals that are leaking? Is it obvious if you
> pull the heads?
>
> All input appreciated.
>
> Thanks
> Kevin
>
>
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