92 Ranger Blown Head Gasket

[dark_sage1982]

I have a 92 Ranger 3.0L I know that the head gasket is blown, is it possible to just change the side that is blown. When i look at new ones there is a right side gasket and a left side gasket.thanks

[backerm1]

yes it is possible. However, the other side might bust in a couple weeks.

[toddler62]

You can, but you'll probably find that once you take everything apart to get the one side replaced it won't take too much more time to do the other side. if the the heads are aluminum it might require new head bolts, also you might want have the head checked to see if its warped

[DonSor]

I agree you may as well do both sides. In fact when you have the head out you may find some other things wrong and do the appropriate repair work while the head is out. If you opt for a valve job, that tightens things up in the chambers. With the mileage you have, the rings may not be able to handle the increased compression resulting in blow-by.

[e_powers]

Originally Posted by toddler62

You can, but you'll probably find that once you take everything apart to get the one side replaced it won't take too much more time to do the other side. if the the heads are aluminum it might require new head bolts, also you might want have the head checked to see if its warped

he needs new head bolts for a head gasket on vulcans any way

[G.A.S.]

Half a gasket, half a job. e powers is right, you need new bolts.
Just do both sides and get it over with.
Then you know what you have.
There is nothing more that pisses me off when a half a job gets done and something happens and they say, why didnt I do it when I was over half way there.
The engine is appart, JUST DO IT.
besides, you'll have a piece of mind when your done.

[Jacfourteen]

I agree I did a single side once just to find out the other side was bad as well, I was pissed . not only did i have to do it again but i had to buy new intake gaskets and more antifreeze. you're better off to do it right the first time . oh yeah, and make sure to have heads checked for straightness/cracks or you'll be doing it again.