I have a '97 Mazda Protege. Recently I sent it to the shop to have my waterpump fixed and on the way bringing the car back home it still overheated and now it won't crank up. I've been told by many that it is my heads and that they are warped. I've found someone to pressure wash and rework them but now everyone is telling me that it will be a waste of time and I should just look into buying another car like money grows on trees or something. Is it really a waste to get the heads fixed and still drive my car or should I just chalk it up as a lost and wish for money I will never have to buy another.
2007-08-07 16:03:51 · 4 answers · asked by sumptinsweet4u 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Engine is overheated and head is warped. To check, you will have to take the cylinder head out of the engine. For that car, it will take about 4 hours of labor (just to take out, it takes 3 more hours to put the head back into the engine)
Head is warped, then you will need to send it to a machine shop and have the head warp measured. Machine shop charges $50 for this service. And if head can be corrected, the will charge another $50 to mill the head flat. if it is warped beyond that then you either need a new head or new case, and all your existing valves needs transfered. Service like this could run up to $500 (parts not included).
So you are looking at least $800 just have the mechanic lift the head and try to fix. And if head is beyond repair, you would be spending another $500 labor + cost of new head (which could run up to another $500) At worst case, you can burn up to $1800.
For most cars, I would spend that money and try to fix the problem. But Mazda isn't that good car so you really have to ask yourself. Even if you dump that money to fix, how much the car is really worth afterward? And if you think is worth it, then fix. Otherwise, you should junk it and spend that $1800 in a new car.
2007-08-07 16:52:41 · answer #1 · answered by Sang K 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If the body and transmission are in good shape, and if you can find some one who is willing to machine your heads for a reasonable price, I would go for it. Make sure they check your block for damage also
2007-08-07 16:09:51 · answer #2 · answered by codemonkey812 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The cheapest route is to have it rebuilt or replace the heads. It is possible that it may just be the gasket. Good luck.
2007-08-07 16:08:17 · answer #3 · answered by Fordman 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it has high mileage,getting the head redone may cause the oil rings to weaken and the engine will smoke and burn oil
2007-08-07 16:07:05 · answer #4 · answered by Cruiser 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋