Headgasket?

[GatorMike]

After getting my 115 Johnson back together and working out all the bugs I noticed a small problem. A small pool of water in the lower engine cowling prompted me to search for a leak. Upon close examination I found a pinhole leak in the top of the starboard headgasket. I re-torqued the bolts a couple of times but still have a fine mist of water out of that leak. Tightening bolts is not going to stop it so here is my question. If I pull the head and reseat it do I need to replace that new $20 head gasket? I know you are not suposed to reuse headgaskets but I hate to trash a new one.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Headgasket?

I have reused new head gaskets a few times without encountering problems... it's well worth a try. Examine the gasket closely for flaws and any possible debris that may be interfering with its sealing quality. The same holds true for the sealing surface of the crankcase.

You don't say what the year of the engine is so you will need to know the head bolt torque specifications. Torque the bolts in the following sequence.

9....10
5.....6
1.....2
4.....3
8.....7

 

[GatorMike]

Re: Headgasket?

Thanks Joe,
It's a 98 115 SPL model J115TSLECM. I have the torque specs already so I don't know why I just posted that.

 

[boobie]

Re: Headgasket?

I have also reused new headgaskets. If it doesn't say "use no sealer" on them put some OMC Gasket Sealing Compound
on them and put it back together and torque properly.