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[JesterRT]

Hey - after some advice on whether it's worth trying to fix up a 1.4 '98 Rover 200.  Garage diagnosed head gasket (it's well down on power and steam out the exhaust - sniffer test confirmed.

Anyone done a headgasket on a 200 before?  Garage have quoted 500 quid for the job - that sounds expensive to me (especially since I'm quite prepared to get my hands dirty).  I've seen the kits on the auction site for about 40-50 quid, so how much labour is involved?

Thanks in advance!

[Elite Pete]

I've done a few MGF ones and the 200 on will be easier due to access. Make sure you get a good multi layer head gasket and new bolts. Its also worth getting the head checked as well

[Crazycarzowner]

Hi mate, I've done umpteen K-series cylinder heads. They're very easy to do. As Pete says a good dual or multi-layer gasket is required, otherwise you'll be doing it again very soon. Make sure the dowels that align the head to the block aren't the plastic ones too & have the head pressure tested before you put it back. Whilst everything is in pieces flush out the rad & change the water pump & thermostat. If its worth doin, do it properly. Once done it should last as that's their achillies heel. If you do it yourself you should have change out of £150.

[rob in gib]

as stated very easy to change HG
a multi layer gasket is a must along with new set of bolts water pump and flush
ensure you pressure test and skim the head
and clean the surface of the block well
i always use 8oo wet and dry and polish to almost a mirror finish never had a problem and have done over a hundred
hth

[Ecobwg]

There are a few other things to check for. indentations in the head or warping of the head face if it has overheated.

Also check for possible causes and repair as required. A 98 214 would have been supplied with a steel radiator which will have corroded by now and gunked up the cooling system.
Even if the rad has been replaced, the gunk may still be there and usually blocks the little ball bearing valve on the inlet manifold. Make sure this is clear before re-assembly. Also use a new inlet manifold gasket.

Most re-failures of head gaskets on K-series are because of garages not repairing the initial cause when they replace the gasket.

[TheBoy]

HG is quite easy on the K series.  Primary causes are localised overheating due to coolant issues, or a bit of head movement on early ones.  Key is regular coolant level checks, and immediate investigation if it drops at any point.

If you put on the newer Landrover MLS one, you need to change the ladder rail as well.


If its been abused with the HG failed, you may need to skim, although its also possible the head will need replacement.

[ninjapirate]

like everyone said, its easy.
or
you could take the time to drop in a 1.8 vvc to liven things up, its plug and play pretty much.  good mpg too
is it 16v or 8v?