Diesel Diagnosis: 4 Common Causes Of Diesel Cylinder Head Cracking

A damaged cylinder head can be devastating to your engine—and your wallet. And sometimes it's not just your cylinder head that has an issue. It can be an indication of larger engine problems.

If the damage is not too extreme, there might be a chance to repair the existing head, but, in many cases it will need to be replaced.

CAT-C15-Cylinder-Head-And-Engine-Block

One of the most common causes of cylinder head failure is cracking. This will most likely cause you to need a replacement head, because machine shops aren't always able to repair them very well. This causes the cracks to reoccur soon after a rebuild, putting you in the exact same position, but out the money for the initial repair.

Frequently, cracks appear between the valves, one of the weaker spots on the head, but that's not always the case. The operating conditions play a large role in how the damage occurs on the cylinder head.

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CAUSES OF A CRACKED CYLINDER HEAD

1. Overheating

The most common cause of cylinder head cracking is overheating. The rapid heating of the engine causes the head to expand and then contract as the engine cools. This puts a large amount of stress on the cylinder head, leading to cracks.

2. Stressful Operating Conditions

Similarly, stressful operating conditions can lead to cracks, along with other engine problems. This is especially true if you have an engine model where your engine block and cylinder head are made of different materials.

A common combination is a cast iron block and aluminum head. The two metals expand and contract at different rates, causing cracks in the lighter aluminum head more quickly.

3. Liner Dropping

Often, when the head gasket blows, it may be due to the liner "dropping" in the block. This will release the tension holding the head gasket and allow the compression gasses by.

It’s also possible that when the compression enters the cooling system, it could displace the coolant, causing the cylinder head to overheat significantly.

4. How Can You Prevent a Cracked Cylinder Head?

Keeping your engine from overheating can help, so it's important to keep a close eye on your coolant levels. Small preventative measures like this can really save you a lot of money down the road.

For more information on cylinder head problems and what to look for in a new cylinder head, be sure to check out our buying guide.

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ISSUES CAUSED BY CYLINDER HEAD CRACKS

A number of issues can arise from a cracked cylinder head.

1. Coolant Entering the Cylinders

Coolant can enter the cylinders and engine block through the crack. This can contaminate the oil, causing other major engine problems.

It could also cause pitting and damage to the engine block. If the coolant enters the cylinder itself, it is often burned off in the exhaust, while damaging the cylinders. If this damage occurs, it's likely that more than just the head and head gasket will need to be replaced to regain a proper seal for combustion and prevent further damage.

2. Valve Damage

Depending on their location, cracks can also cause damage to the valves. This will decrease your engine efficiency, and can also lead to further problems later on.

How HHP Can Help With Your Cylinder Head Issues

Cracks in your cylinder head is not something you want to ignore. They obviously aren't going to go away on their own, and more than likely they will lead to further damage on your engine.

If you find yourself in need of a new cylinder head, we offer a large selection of both new and remanufactured heads.

Highway & Heavy Parts also has:

  • ASE Certified Technicians on staff to help diagnose your diesel engine problems

  • Fast and accurate quotes

  • A huge inventory of replacement parts

  • Fast and easy ordering—call or shop online!

  • Fast shipping

  • Industry leading warranties

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CYLINDER HEAD & COMPONENTS RESOURCES

Related Articles:

REBUILD CYLINDER HEAD VS REMANUFACTURED CYLINDER HEAD

WHAT TO DO ABOUT A CRACKED CYLINDER HEAD IN YOUR DIESEL ENGINE

WHEN CAN I RESURFACE MY DIESEL ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD?

REPLACING YOUR SPACER PLATE: WHEN SHOULD IT BE DONE?

CYLINDER HEAD FAILURE ANALYSIS: WARPED OR PITTED HEADS

HOW TO INSTALL A DIESEL ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD

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