Durango 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z (1998)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Testing and Inspection
FAILURE DIAGNOSIS
A leaking engine cylinder head gasket usually results in loss of power, loss of coolant, and engine misfiring.
An engine cylinder head gasket leak can be located between adjacent cylinders or between a cylinder and the adjacent water jacket.
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An engine cylinder head gasket leaking between adjacent cylinders is indicated by a loss of power and/or engine misfire.
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An engine cylinder head gasket leaking between a cylinder and an adjacent water jacket is indicated by coolant foaming or overheating and loss of
coolant.
Cylinder To Cylinder Leakage Test
To determine if an engine cylinder head gasket is leaking between adjacent cylinders, follow the procedures outlined in Cylinder Compression
Pressure Test. An engine cylinder head gasket leaking between adjacent cylinders will result in approximately a 50-70% reduction in compression
pressure.
Cylinder To Water Jacket Leakage Test
WARNING: Use extreme caution when the engine is operating. Do not stand in a direct line with the fan. Do not put your hands near the
pulleys, belts, oft the fan. Do not wear loose clothing.
Remove the radiator cap.
Start the engine and allow it to warm up until the engine thermostat opens.
If a large combustion/compression pressure leak exists, bubbles will be visible in the coolant.
If bubbles are not visible, install a radiator pressure tester and pressurize the coolant system.
If a cylinder is leaking combustion pressure into the water jacket, the tester pointer will pulsate with every combustion stroke of the cylinder.
