93 es 300 (5 speed) overheating

[anmejo]

I just found this group and need HELP, I have a 93 es300 she has been overheating I had it flushed---fairly new radiator and pulled the thermostat, seems to run fine (cool) around town but downshift getting off an exit ramp and it blows coolant out thru the reservoir, my local machanic thinks that it is a bad head gasket---could this be the case?? I am not seeing any white smoke, or coolant in the oil or vice versa. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Andy

[Toysrme]

Blowing a head gasket doesn't have to blow it at an oil, or coolant passage.
Warm the engine up & do a compression check, or a cylinder leak down test. That's the only way to know for sure.

If it's blown, call Lexus corperate office & complain to them about it. The head gaskets are semi-covered under a lifetime recall. Get them to send you a letter OK'ing a replacement, then take that to a Lexus, or Toyota dealer to have the work done.
Beware, the gaskets blow because of poor construction on all US (north american) bound cars from the mid 80's through the mid 90's due to changing asbestos regulations.
The replacement gaskets will be stronger, however the aluminum heads are prone to very easy warping on the iron block once they overheat.

HAVE THE HEADS MILLED FLAT Otherwise you'll be replacing head gaskets every 6 months if they're warped.

[anmejo]

Hi,
Thanks for the reply, I am going to follow your advice and see about getting it checked. My problem is lack of time I am thinking about putting her up for sale and getting something a bit newer, I love the car but she needs someone that will put some time and money into her.
Thanks again for your help.
Andy