Function of Car Cylinder Head Gasket, Types and How to Install It
The car cylinder head gasket is a component located between the cylinder head and the engine block in the combustion chamber of a car engine. This component consists of several types and has a very vital function for the success of the car's combustion process.
Function of Car Cylinder Head Gasket
There are several functions of the car cylinder head gasket that you need to know. The complete functions are as follows.
1. Maintaining tightness and preventing leaks
The main function of the cylinder head gasket in a car is to maintain tightness during the engine compression process. In addition, the gasket also functions to prevent oil leaks into the radiator channels and vice versa, so that these leaks do not seep into the engine combustion chamber during the engine compression process.
2. Withstanding pressure
The cylinder head gasket also serves to withstand pressure so that fluids from the cylinder head do not spread to the engine block or cylinder block.
3. Conducting heat
The cylinder head gasket also functions to conduct heat from the cylinder block to the cylinder head. In this heat conduction process, a packing gasket made of metal is usually used. Generally, this heat conduction function is closely related to the function of preventing leaks.
4. Maintaining compression
As is known, the gasket functions to maintain compression in the cylinder block. This compression is very important for the car's performance because if the compression changes, the car's acceleration will be sluggish and fuel consumption will become wasteful.
5. Dampening vibrations and noise
The gasket also functions to dampen vibrations and noise in the engine so that it does not disturb the comfort of driving.
6. Keeping the engine clean
In addition, gaskets can also keep the engine clean from contamination by dust, dirt, and small particles that can interfere with engine performance.
Types of Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets
Based on the type of base material used, engine cylinder gaskets are divided into five types: paper-based, rubber, cork, cloth-coated graphite, and metal. Meanwhile, according to their functional and applicative aspects, gaskets are divided into six types as follows.
1. Flat gasket
Suitable for use on flat surfaces.
2. Spiral wound gasket
Can only be used once and is usually used at high pressures and temperatures.
3. Metal spring energizing
Used for large media
4. Metal O-ring gasket
This gasket is very suitable for high temperature and pressure applications.
5. Metal U-ring gasket
This gasket is very suitable for applications with 12,000 Psi pressure.
6. Metal C-ring gasket
Used for small media and suitable for low pressure.
Read Also : All About Gaskets: Definition to Types
How to Properly Install a Car Cylinder Gasket
To properly install the cylinder head gasket, you can apply the following steps.
- Prepare replacement tools including a new and original cylinder head gasket, sealant (special adhesive), 10 mm and 12 mm wrenches, microfiber cloth.
- Then open the engine cover.
- Next, remove the ignition coil from the engine without removing the spark plugs
- Open the breather hose on the engine and the Positive Crankshaft Ventilation (PCV) valve.
- Then remove the bolts on the cylinder in order according to the numbers indicated on the bolts using a 10 mm or 12 mm wrench.
- Then lift the cover from the cylinder head carefully as this component is connected to the timing chain, AC hose, and power steering.
- Clean the residue of the previous gasket, as damaged gaskets often stick to the cover in a broken or torn condition
- Then apply sealant to the cover and the rubber gasket circle of the new gasket.
- Then reinstall the cover and other components in order.
If you are still confused with the above steps, you can have the installation done directly at a Daihatsu official workshop.
