Q: Pitted surface around exhaust ports on head.

asked by on November 28, 2016

is it necessary to have the head machined to remove all pits or will the gasket seal against these imperfections?

Exhaust Manifold Gasket Replacement $112.08 - $1356.34 Get a Quote

The cylinder head gasket mating surface must be machined flat to ensure a proper seal and the exhaust manifold mounting surface may be machined if there is an exhaust leak there from the cylinder head warping. A few small pits across the surface may not affect sealing that much if you use the right gasket and some sealer. Consider hring an experienced technician like one from YourMechanic who can come out an take a closer look at the exhaust ports on the cylinder head to offer a more personal diagnosis.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Is It Safe To Drive a Vehicle With Broken Suspension?
Driving a vehicle with a broken suspension is like walking with a bad knee or broken leg. The support is gone, the weight is shifted and your stability is compromised. This condition can cause the vehicle to sway or instability...
Misfire on cylinder 4; error code P0304
The misfire is caused by one or more of several possible causes: the coil, a spark plug, an injector, wiring, compression in the cylinder, or the computer for the engine. Any one of these could be the culprit and diagnosis...
After replacing TPMS valve, does the warning light automatically goes away?
The light will not reset itself until you have the new sensor communicate to the TPMS module. This takes a calibration process that most any tire store should be able to do and some mechanics that have the proper scanner...
Parking Brake?
The rear parking brake shoes (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-shoes-rear-replacement) may be causing the clicking inside the new rotors. If the parking brakes are dragging a little. You may have rear brake pads or front brake pads moving inside the caliper bracket. It could...
Gas smell inside cab
Hi there, thanks for writing in about your 2006 Pontiac Solstice. It's possible that something on the turbo kit was installed improperly, such as hoses were crossed in the process, or if there are vacuum leaks causing components to malfunction....
car won't start, maybe electrical - 1995 Honda Civic
Hey there. I would start by checking the speed sensors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/speed-sensor-replacement). The plug that connects to this in the engine bay can become wet and can cause this type of problem. Also, check the alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement), and VSS (vehicle speed...
Very low rpm
Hi there. From the description you have given, I believe you are stating that your vehicle has no power, and you are only able get to 35-50 mph and nothing over 1500 rpm. You also stated vehicle runs great, which...
My hyundai santa fe 2.0 diesel 2002 bounce bounces around and no the engine has a loss of power.
Hi there. With the limited information that is given about your vehicle, check the engine to see if the air filter is plugged. A plugged air filter will make the engine starve for fuel and air and will cause the...
P0089 code, fuel pressure regulator performance low. Went into limp mode, then next morning no start
After doing a little research on your particular situation, it looks as though this is a fairly common problem with this model of vehicle. I would suggest contacting your local dealership about the situation due to the fact that I...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Ford Expedition
The The 2012 Ford Expedition has ample room for passengers and cargo, while still being able to tow anywhere from 8,900 to 9,200 pounds. The Expedition has two-tone exterior packages making it stand out against its competitors. Along with that,...
5 Essential Things to Know About Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles (PZEV)
If If you’ve always assumed that Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles (PZEVs) were some kind of electric vehicle, it’s time for a bit of a car lesson. Here we’ll explain what all those letters mean, and how they affect you –...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re an Athletic Coach
If If you are an athletic coach, you need a used vehicle with tons of room to transport gear. Once in awhile, you may have to take a player or two along with you as well. What this means is...