Re: E34 540i Head Gasket replacement?

["Ron Buchalski" <rbuchals@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Randy,

A head gasket isn't a "normal wear" item, like spark plugs, belts, hoses, 
etc.  Thus, if you have a bad head gasket, it's something that needs to be 
replaced NOW!

Also, during Inspection II, the mechanic doesn't perform any tests to 
determine that a head gasket is bad.  So, short of observing _symptoms_ that 
_may_indicate_ a bad head gasket, (spark plug fouling, oil in radiator, 
coolant in oil), the mechanic won't really know that a head gasket is bad, 
let alone _going_bad_!

I'd question the technical competence of a shop that tells you the gasket 
needs to be replaced "soon".  A head gasket problem can't be determined in 
the same way that one can look at brake pads and say they should be replaced 
in 5000 miles.  Take the car to another shop for a second opinion, and make 
sure that they run specific tests to detect a bad head gasket.

As far as costs go, a head gasket replacement will easily cost over $1000.  
Others on the list may have exact costs.

- -rb

>
>Date: Mon, 17 Dec 2001 11:32:27 -0500
>From: Randy S Whitney <rsw@domain.elided>
>Subject: E34 540i Head Gasket replacement?
>
>On my last Inspection II, I was told I would need to soon replace my
>head gasket. What all is involved and approx. how much $$$ would it
>cost to do this job?
>
>Thanks,
>Randy.


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