Head Gasket Choices - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

TBayToyotaBoy · 02-01-2006, 01:10 PM

So I seem to be leaking some oil...or, a lot of oil. I had bought this Fel-Pro Intake Manifold set about two years ago and it seemed to be decent quality.

I have heard *ahem* other things about this brand, so I'm looking for input here. What are your experiences? Gen2 advice would be especially appreciated, but I want to hear from anyone who has had good OR bad things happen with any brand and any Camry generation...

theman33b · 02-01-2006, 04:56 PM

I have a gen 2 and i realized that i leak alot from my valve cover, i have replaced the gasket twice already and i think the other bank is leaking right on the exhaust smells lovely. are you sure its coming from the head gasket?

toyrolla · 02-03-2006, 03:31 PM

I've used Fel-Pro products on my Camrys, as well as on my future father-in-law's 96 Chrysler New Yorker.

One of the keys to gasket application is a clean mating surface.

If you apply Fel-Pro (or any gasket) with the mounting surfaces clean, you shouldn't have any problems.

Usually what I do before applying a gasket is I clean the mating surfaces using a clean rag and gasket removal spray, then I follow-up with another clean rag with brake cleaning spray.

I usually apply a light spray on the rag that's wrapped around my index finger, then follow around the mating surfaces until all oil and junk is removed. Then I follow up with the same procedure using brake cleaning spray.

Sounds a bit anal, but trust me when I tell you; it's worth it.
You really want the mating surfaces *clean* before you apply the gasket.

Good luck!

88 LE · 02-04-2006, 06:15 AM

I've used Fel-pro intake/exhaust manifold gaskets, without problems.

What I like to do, especially with head gaskets is use a scotchbrite sponge (the rough green side) and clean the mating surfaces. Or use a right angle air die grinder with screw on 3M polishing pads.

As for the head gasket, buy one from a Toyota dealership. IIRC its $40 or so for the head gasket + head bolt set.

TBayToyotaBoy · 02-04-2006, 10:15 PM

Thanks all, that's good advice. As for your question, theman, I'm sure it's the head gasket. Believe me, I tried to convince myself it was something else--but I redid the valve cover gaskets last year (the easiest fix, of course) and they're still very obviously good.

I'll actually try to take everyone's suggestions for mating surface prep work. I know how insanely important it is. I don't want to be doing this again in six months!

And 88LE, I really hope you're right on the pricing! I would have expected $150-plus from dealer...