Doug and Rene Brand <brand@rushmore.com> wrote in
news:1183155032.554689.21790@k79g2000hse.googlegro ups.com:

> I have a 95 Honda Civic that I was having problems with overheating.
> It would push antifreeze out the coolant reservoir until it was out of
> coolant. I ended up replacing the thermostat, water pump, fan temp
> switch, and radiator cap but nothing fixed the problem. I then
> started to suspect a coolant leak in the head gasket. I connected an
> air hose to each cylinder using my compression tester hose. When I put
> air pressure to #4 cylinder @ TDC, the coolant level in the radiator
> would rise and spill out over the top of the radiator.



Then there y'go. That's your smoking gun.


>
> My question is, when I tear into the head gasket, how will I know if
> it is the head gasket or a cracked head? Will it show signs on the
> head gasket where it is leaking or will you be able to see a crack in
> the head?


You cannot know until the head is magnafluxed.

Chances are just about 100% that it's simply a failed head gasket. As a
general rule, Honda heads do not crack.


>
> Also, should I do any other maintanance while I have the head off? The
> car has 137,000 miles.
>



Replacing the valve guide oil seals would be an excellent idea, if you
don't mind spending the money.


--
Tegger

The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ
www.tegger.com/hondafaq/