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MG ZR ZS ZT Technical - More Coolant Problems

Daughter has a ZR160. Coolant keeps disappearing from the header tank. There is some evidence of oil in this tank. No overheating or running problems.

I have come to the conclusion that the head gasket is failing but I don't want a mechanic friend to simply replace it if there is a cause. I know that water pumps can leak and there is some suggestion that the inlet manifold gasket can leak but what else should I look for?

I am hoping that the head will not need skimming but should this be done to be prudent? Do the stretch bolts need replacing?

I asume that the replacenent gasket will come with new dowels but whose gasket set should I buy.

Any help will be most appreciated.
P.G Hutchinson

Sounds like a HGF, but get your friend to check it out properly, Look at the oil if there is yucky mayonniase evident when you take the oil filler cap off when the engine is cold, then you have your confirmation. A head skim may be inevitable.

There seems to be a good Head gasket replacement available from Land Rover that will fit this engine.
Neil

It might be a good idea to get in contact with the MGOC and Rog Parker

http://www.mgcars.org.uk/cgi-bin/gen5?runprog=mgoc&p=index.html

Neil

If their is oil in your coolant then their is a very good possibility of a HG failure. One simple cause can be the coolant pressure cap not holding its correct pressure or a cooling fan not working but as you said the main causes are leaking Inlet manifold gaskets and coolant pumps. On the later models you cannot tell if the coolant pumps were leaking because the had an evaporating chamber on them to limit warranty claims and you could only tell once they got so bad that they needed replacing. As for your head skimming I would seriously have it done because with all aluminium alloy engines if they do get hot then they can easily warp and then you will continue to have a HG problem al your life and if the Head is to come off it better to have it done while it is off if you get my drift!
Martyn

This thread was discussed between 29/11/2006 and 19/12/2006

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