Question Replacing VW Head Gasket
 

Hello Everyone, SmileWavy
I have a question regarding using sealant on a head gasket.
I'm working on a 2002 VW Golf with a 2.0L engine.

I'm replacing the head gasket because I had water leaking into the exhaust which has clogged the 02 sensors, (both) and is clogging up the CAT. :mad:

The Fel-Pro gasket I bought is a MLS gasket (Multi Layer Steel) and according to Fel-Pro no sealant is necessary.

I was considering using a sealant only because this is a big job and I'm spending a few hundred dollars on O2 sensor and a CAT and I don't want to have to do this again. :(

Do any of you have experience using sealant on MLS gaskets?

Thanks in advance. :)
L

When I did the top end/cooling refresh on my Series I used a MLS gasket.....no sealant and no problems.

did you get the head cut/valve job? a straight head is more important than a gasket sealer.

i used that copper spray gakset on the head of my mazda. it really depends on the gasket materiel but i dont remember what mine was.

Hi, unless I am missing something in your post you state you had 'water' (coolant?) leaking into the exhaust. The only way for this to happen is there is a breach in the cylinder head between cooling passages and exhaust seat / port.

If your head gasket has failed you'll have coolant in the combustion chamber, which then exits into the exhaust. If this happened that combustion chamber will be clean as a whistle and you'd have misfire codes.........................

If you're not sure, you'll need to have the cylinder head pressure checked to rule that out.

What asphalt said. I send every head out, and have it pressure checked, and milled . It prevents comebacks.
Gasket goes on dry to a perfectly milled head and a really clean block surface. If you are trying to get by without milling the head, a few light passes of that spray gasket may not hurt.
I don't see those cars blow head gaskets all that often. I am usually removing the head because a belt broke, and smashed all the intake valves
Good luck

It is coated with a polymer or is it a straight up steel surface?

I would go on a VW board and inquire. Generally FelPro is a top company, and I would go with their recommendation. I have used MLS gaskets from them before and they were all coated with some sort of polymer.


G

Check to make sure the head bolts are not TTY.

They are, just replace them