Advice on a blown head gasket
 

Hello. I have a 1984 Chevy K20 that has a blown head gasket. I am trying to decide between just fixing that or getting a new engine. I live in California so I have to take passing smog into consideration. The truck has a rebuilt 5.7 liter in it now that only has 40k miles on it. But, I would like more power. What is the best route to take?

Re: Advice on a blown head gasket
 

Only 40k and a blown head gasket after a rebuild... I would be interested in why it blew out that quick.

Gary

Re: Advice on a blown head gasket
 

Depends on your funds and ability. Me personally, I would pull the block and enjoy doing the work on it and what I'm about to create. I would think its cheaper for your wallet to do the upgrades yourself. If you went that route.

:welcoem: to the forum.

x2 on what Gary said. Seems strange it would blow a gasket so quickly. What are the signs you see it is blown?

Re: Advice on a blown head gasket
 

In my experience cast iron engines almost never blow head gaskets. I think an intake leak or possibly a cracked head would be more likely.

Re: Advice on a blown head gasket
 

Could be a cracked block also.

Really? I am trying to think of an iron engine that I have not seen blow a head gasket.

Re: Advice on a blown head gasket
 

I only see it on imports and ford and chrysler 4 cyl aluminum head crap. I never see it in stock cast iron engines. Maybe race engines will push the limits and blow a head gasket. I don't do much of that.

Re: Advice on a blown head gasket
 

Experiences vary. I have seen blown head gaskets on SBC, BBC, SBF, Ford FE & FT, Dodge big & small blocks ... you name it. And that is just V8s. Stock built fleet service, not race.