Hi all, looking to see if anyone has had a leaking head gasket that was leaking exhaust only? I noticed a small drop in my coolant but I maybe lose about half a pint every 35,000 kms. I wasn't really concerned about the minimal coolant loss. Oil is always clean, sparkplugs look normal. I have developed an exhaust leak on passenger side which is coming from the gasket. My question is besides a possible warped head, are there any other suprises that I should look forward to? Anyone heard of a warped block or anything major?

 

What engine do you have? Are you sure it is leaking from the head gasket and not the exhaust manifold? Many Ford engines develop a leak in the exhaust manifold due to warp caused by extreme heat. Be sure before pulling the head.
Will Walker

 

My old 99 5.4 2 valve had gotten a little warm one time in the summer (electric fans blew fuse) and all I noticed from that lil episode was a small oil leak forming between the head and block. That was at 105k miles...... moving foward It leaked/seeped a little, never left oil on the ground jus gave everything a nice protective coating. LOL I left it alone until the truck was totaled in a wreck at 238k miles. All I can say is my head may have warped but I didnt know for sure, I just kept driving the hell out of her. THat 2valve 5.4 was a solid motor for sure. I hope to see 230k out of my 2004 3 valve.

This probably did not help you any but this is my story and Im sticking to it.

 

Yes, definately coming from the head, changed my exhaust manifold and gasket, with new studs and nuts. Started it up and exactly the same noise. Confirmed that is was indeed the head gasket, its only 1/2" away from the manifold gasket. Sure fooled me! I haven't heard of too many cases with exhaust leaking from the head. Engine is out already, just getting ready to pull it apart. Anyone do head gaskets without the Ford special tools? Just wondering if they are a must or can a guy do without?