"Hendersauce" <shinigami_chris@juno.com> wrote in message
news:1158864715.260325.211420@b28g2000cwb.googlegr oups.com...
> Recently I have had an issue with my 93' Civic all stock, (227,000
> miles, still runs good, but I know it's a ton of miles). White smoke
> from my tail pipe, coolant in my exhaust can be smelled, with the car
> lurching/stuttering in idle. Driving, my temp meter shot up to high, I
> turned on the heater to get it down, which helped but it would still
> rise and fall like a roller coaster. It happened yesterday, got it home
>
> and I haven't driven it since, I do not want to warp or damage the
> engine...
>
> Through some online research and input from dad, I discovered that I
> either have a blown head gasket or a cracked head. I know that I need
> to replace a head Gasket, but I'm not sure where to start? (e.g
> compression test, watching radiator or bubbles)
> It seems like it's not going to JUST be the Gasket either that needs
> replacing, reading various blogs it sounds like there's a bit more
> involved in the process (People have been posting about torque and
> flexible header bolts, losing me in this jargon). I don't know too much
>
> about cars, it's a learning experience for me. Pops knows a bit, but
> some DIY input would be great.
>
> What I do know is that as a full time college student, I don't have the
>
> 12- 1400 Grand to pay a shop to do it. I just had Midas replace my
> master Cylinder (no pressure, pedal to the floor) and do all my brakes
> 2 weeks ago, a $400 job my parents helped me cover. So I am not willing
>
> to just give up on this car after putting that kind of money into it.
> Please, I'd appreciate it if responses like, "If you don't know what
> you're doing forget it", they are annoying and quite unhelpful. This is
>
> why I am posting for some input. We (pops and I) are doing it at home,
> and I simply want maybe a walkthrough, or some things to look out for,
> strategies to avoid problems, etc. Thanks in advance for stopping to
> read my blog...
>
> Also, Car is in good condition. I had it fully serviced last month, all
>
> fluids checked, Filters replaced, etc. 2 months ago had to replace the
> radiator with a new one (Texas summer! 0_o). In other words, I have not
>
> had any issues with this vehicle...
>
> - Chris H.
>

The symptoms sure sound like a head gasket, and possibly a warped head.
Cracked heads are rarer. The shadetree test for head gasket trouble is to
remove the radiator cap (engine cold!) and start the engine. Pinch off the
hose to the reservoir and place the palm of your hand over the radiator
opening for a few seconds. If you feel steadily rising pressure or (worse)
pulsations the head needs to come off for repair.

Replacing a head gasket is a fairly advanced DIY job, but it is more work
than skill that makes it a challenge. Some important points:
*Don't rush. Expect the car to be down a week or two as you sort out snags,
in expertise or tool availability. Before the new head gasket goes on be
sure the surfaces are really ready (flat and clean). Check for guidance
frequently.
*Ask around to find a friend of a friend who has replaced a head gasket
before. Having a local source of expertise is both emotional and technical
support.
*Rent the special tools you need, which will certainly include a torque
wrench. Some parts chains offer what amounts to free rentals for up to three
days - it amounts to buying the tool and returning it for a refund, but they
expect you to do that.
*A good manual is a good friend. You can get a Haynes manual for under $20
US the last I saw, but the Helm manual at $62 (http://tinyurl.com/z7pgl)
will serve you much better. DIY repairs can make up the difference in price
very quickly.

Mike