1997 Cummins Head Gasket Leak

[ken1989]

Looks like I have a head gasket leak in my 1997 Dodge with 12V Cummins. It appears that gasket replacement can be done without pulling the motor and I am thinking about doing it myself. Anybody know a good shop in the Edmonton area that has reasonable rates and does good work? Might save me a few bruised knuckles.

[dewalt18]

Easy enough job to do yourself if you have some wrenching experience. I'd recommend upgrading your head studs while you're at it

[pa_of_6]

Originally Posted by dewalt18

Easy enough job to do yourself if you have some wrenching experience. I'd recommend upgrading your head studs while you're at it

Yep.. easy job,

Takes about 3-4 hours to take off and an extra hour to install

ARP studs would b my suggestion
Costs about 600$ for the studs

Get the gasket kit from Cummins, it gives you all the gaskets u need

Also, the head doctor on Westlock does a great job of heads, budget 100$ per cylinder.

So cost is,
600 for ARP studs
600 for gasket kit
600 to get the head worked on

So 1800$ for the job, just parts and pieces.

I have done a few and it is easy breezy...

U have to set ur valves but they probably need it anyways


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[pa_of_6]

Pm me if you need more help or info.

Always willing to help


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[tri777]

Canadian Tire $35
*Fixed*,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwooRqsk5Vk

lol

[ccmckee]

Pretty straight forward job to do, unless you are making big HP then the studs are not needed. The head bolts are torque to yield so it is recommended they be replaced. If you have an engine hoist it makes getting the head off and on a lot easier as it is a heavy one. We always used the cummins gasket set and i sourced my head bolts from Alberta engine and parts http://albertaengine.com/index.php?cPath=15_21 they rebuild engines for the patch and have a ton of cummins parts in stock.