QuestionQUESTION: I am going to be looking at a 89 honda accord later this afternoon. Seller admits to the following: new clutch, valve cover gaskets, Head gasket(didn't blow, just changed it when changed valve cover gasket), radiator hose, power steering line, and new tires.
Is this something I should be concerned about, and is there anything I should be keeping an eye out for when checking it over?
Thanks!
ANSWER: The only thing that sounds suspicious to me is that he changed the head gasket when doing a valve cover job. The head gasket is not something that you just change because you feel like it. It is a major job. I'm not sure I would believe anyone who said they just changed it to change it.
I'd be very careful with this one.
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QUESTION: Assuming that the head gasket has blown in the past, but has not been repaired - what is the real concern? That the initial cause was not repaired as well?
AnswerIf the head gasket is blown and has not been repaired then you are looking at a $500-$1000 repair bill.
The cause of the head gasket blowing is important as well, but probably not an expensive fix.
I would press this guy on why he would replace the head gasket if it didn't need it. That's just not normal.