Will a PPI detect broken head studs?

FenderGuy · 01-22-2004, 07:41 PM

Just wondering if a PPI will detect broken head studs and if there is a valve job needed?

Vipergrün · 01-22-2004, 07:44 PM

I'd have the mechanic pull the valve covers and check the studs. A compression check and/or leak down could reveal possible valve issues, but there are other things, such as carbon buildup, which could skew the results.

-B

Por_sha911 · Por_sha911's Garage

When I bought my car last year I talked with 5-6 different dealers or mechanics. MOST PPIs are visual only. If you want to know if you need a valve job or have head stud problems, you'll have to pay extra for a leakdown test. Ask what the PPI covers and what the cost is to have a leakdown done at the same time (IMO its well worth it).

dtw · 01-22-2004, 08:01 PM

Just make sure to specify that you want compression and leakdown tests, and inspection of the head studs (requires removal of the valve covers). The going rate here is $150-175.
-dtw

DonDavis · DonDavis's Garage

I would ask a shop to provide a sort of "checklist" that you could expect to see. Or at least a breakdown of what they check and costs associated with the "extra" items you would want inspected.