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MG MGF Technical - Parts for Head Gasket replacement

Hi,

The head gasket on my '97 1.8i needs replacing - it's got a small external coolant leak, and I'm trying to figure out what I need to buy/ where from.

I was looking at the B&G web site, and there seem to be a variety of HG options, from £27 to $100+ (a kit). Can anyone suggest what I should be buying purely to replace the head gasket? Preferably something better than the original which has had it's fair share of issues!

Also, is there anything else that it would be cost-effective to replace at the same time (belts, etc)?

Cheers,

Balders.

Balders

Balders,

Rob probably needs to update this in the light of the new LandRover gasket and oil ladder, but it remains a great checklist for most of the other things:

http://www.mgf.ultimatemg.com/group2/common_problems/hgf_pages/HGF_checklist.htm

If you want to go the LandRover gasket route then you need to be sure that the liner heights are appropriate (check the archives for more info). The latest OEM gasket otherwise is a perfectly OK route. It has been upgraded several times over the years.
Dave Livingstone

If rebuilding a completely standard engine, I would go for the very latest spec OEM gasket. The Land Rover gasket set is not the 'cure-all' solution that some propose it is. However, if rebuilding an engine and checking liner heights (and machining where necessary), then by all means go for the LR kit.
Rob Bell

Thanks chaps. Sounds like the OWM gasket will do me fine.

Balders.
Balders

you could also consider the relatively cheap coolant level alarm system from B&G this will prevent the "other " dreaded HGF...as it gives warning of coolant loss..the parts come with a complete loom and full fitting instuctions and a whole host of peace of mind
RP Armitage

mike satur 220 b.h.p. gaskett,

give him a call.
r.f.j. griffiths

WRT Mike the FAI gasket he supplied (along with others) is flawed on the fire ring. The latest OE type gasket is the one to use and is proven to over 250BHP many times.

Dave
Dave Andrews

What is the part number of this new OE type gasket and does it involve any other components? What type of gasket is it?
d mottram

HI Guys

Can someone supply more details of the coolant level alarm system ?
Sounds like the stuff with all the issues around HGF due to water loss ?

Markj
MA Jenkins

Mark,

ultimate hint:
Always try Google search with what you are looking for and add 'MGF'.

Leads easy to http://www.mgfcar.de/expansion_tank/level_sensor.htm

Rgds
Dieter
Dieter

Markj - that is the DIY route from Dieter, you can buy a complete kit from Brown and Gammons who will ship if you can't get the above parts from a dealer http://www.ukmgparts.com/index1.html?o=115994711715939
Tony

>> What is the part number of this new OE type gasket and does it involve any other components? What type of gasket is it? <<

It's a like for like replacement for your existing gasket, and unlike the LR gasket set does not require any additional components to be purchased.

I don't have the part number to hand - but I don't think that it's changed? The only thing to be wary of is someone passing off old stock as new... has anyone got any good quality pictures of the new gasket?
Rob Bell

Rob, as you alluded to, the problem here down under will be that the dealers will try to sell me that which is on the shelf and assure me that it is the latest you beaut thing and unless I am better informed than them I stand no chance.
I am hopeful that somebody may be able to post a picture so that I know what to look for when I wander off to the dealer.

Thanks guys......................David
d mottram

David, I thought I needed a gasket a few weeks ago and could not find out if the gaskets sold here are of the latest spec, luckily it was just the water pump and not HGF that caused the panic.
Andrew Regens

If you post your e-address or phone no.I'll let you know of my expereances on HGF
Ron

David,

Like you, I had the same fear that I would be sold whatever the dealer had in stock - it didn't help that they said that they never used OE gaskets anyway, and recommended Payen gaskets.

I bought mine online from the MGOC, after asking them to confirm that it was an OE gasket, and latest spec.

mgocspares.com

hope this helps

Mike
mike roberts

Rob

I have just put my TF160 in for a HG replacemnt at Maidstone Sports Cars that use the LR kit. I am a bit concerned about your comments. I thought the LR HG was the way forward, could you expand on reasons...

ron
Ron TF160

This thread was discussed between 28/09/2006 and 08/10/2006

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