[Reubs]

I have replaced a head gasket on a G13 Sierra a few weeks back. It has done 800km since. I am thinking about re-tensioning the head in work's carpark this afternoon before the drive home.

Noob question, actually 2.

Is it recommended to re-tension a new head gasket after several hundred kms? I have always had this done but a few people I have spoken to have said it won't hurt but isn't necessary.

If so, is it OK to do this after the engine has only cooled for about 3 hours so isn't hot but isn't cold either.

[jdk81]

As far as I know, there is some head gaskets which only require setting up to the correct torque once (I believe brand is mentioned on the forum somewhere), I believe others do require a second.

I know the ones I have all bought and used, all require a re-torque.
The car can splutter and cough a little, and use a little coolant, but when re-torqued its much better.
I've used about 10 head gaskets on various builds g13a, g13bb, g16b, g16a and all benefit from the re-torque, probably because I buy the cheapest VRS I can, after having no luck with suziworld supplied ones.

Edit: links
viewtopic.php?f=5&t=21476&hilit=head+gasket
viewtopic.php?f=5&t=31406&p=575755&hilit=headgasket#p575755

[Reubs]

Thanks for the reply jdk81. I'm not using an ACL gasket set - I too just bought a cheap VRS kit off the usual ebay seller.

Does anyone have any thoughts on slightly warm versus cold re-tensioning?

[Reubs]

Done. Also my theatrical display in the work carpark generated some interest in the car which is for sale!

I did the initial tensioning to about 65Nm. This time I went to 68Nm. Range is 63-70Nm. All bolts except 1 needed a tighten and turned about 90deg.

[shandy92]

I no its a bit late now but did u loosen the bolts 1/2 a turn, then torque? Or just check them?

[Reubs]

No loosening - pretty sure that wouldn't be wise either. Tightened straight up.

[shandy92]

That method doesnt really work as efficiently, there is a breakaway torque which hold the bolt in place. That torque might be enough to click the torque wrench before the bolt torque is redone. I would always loosen then redo, even mark with a pen and see where it finishes, then you can see if the final torque has changed.