FIAT Punto (1994 - 1999) - 97 1.1 8 valve head gasket change.

Honest John Back Room » Technical matters
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Sun 23 Feb 2003 18:37
97 1.1 8 valve head gasket change. - Pete
Recently diagnosed failing head gasket on neighbours 97 Punto 1.1 standard 8 valve. Engine was not allowed to overheat.
Neighbour took car to local garage who confirmed head gasket failure. Removal of head confirmed that no skimming was required and the work was done. Car is now back in service and running fine.
However, I now find that the garage did not use new stretch bolts when the head was replaced (owner was not charged for the bolts) Off-the-record advice please, as to if this should be a matter for concern ?
Thank you.

Edited by Pugugly. on 24/02/2008 at 21:09

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Sun 23 Feb 2003 22:30
Punto head gasket change. - IanT
If you are sure this engine uses stretch bolts, they can be of two types:

1. Slightly elastic - can be re-used if they haven't exceeded their elastic limit. This is usually determined by length of the old bolts which shouldn't exceed the limit set in the manual.

2. Not elastic - must be replaced since they are always deformed.

I don't know which the Punto uses. Most people would say it's good engineering practice to replace these bolts anyway, but it wouldn't surprise me that a garage didn't if they are type (1).

Ian
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Mon 24 Feb 2003 21:42
Punto head gasket change. - Pete
Thanks Ian. Yes, they are stretch bolts but I have yet to establish if they are elasic or non elastic type.
Anyone have confirmation on this please?
Thanks, Pete.
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Sun 24 Feb 2008 17:40
Punto head gasket change. - glynbristol
you sure they not replaced them. Bill may say Head gasket, but they usually come as a set, Head gasket, bolys, manifold gaskets (exhausst and inlet) and cam cover and often with a cambelt oil seal also.........and i have seen for under 18 the lot. So maybe the head gasket item on the bill in everything
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Sun 24 Feb 2008 20:59
Punto head gasket change. - Petel
Thank you for your reply Glyn, though perhaps you would care to check the date on the original post?
Rgds.
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Sun 24 Feb 2008 21:08
Punto head gasket change. - Pugugly.
I did. I was about to cut and paste my moan about engine and year into the post as well.

Deleted your e-mail address as well for you.

Edited by Pugugly. on 24/02/2008 at 21:10

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Sun 24 Feb 2008 23:56
Punto head gasket change. - Number_Cruncher
Mmm, the date nearly caught me out too.

I don't think I can let the idea that there's such a thing as non-elastic bolts pass without the raise of an eyebrow though!

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