Q&A for How to Fix a Head Gasket With Engine Block Sealer

There is no economical way to actually fix it unless you have the ability to remove the head and replace the gasket yourself. If you are handy and get a how-too book, it can be done. Some temporary fixes are inexpensive, but they are not permanent, and don't always work well.

Blue Devil worked great for me temporarily. Eventually, I did have to replace the gasket.

While radiator coolant (anti-freeze) properties are great to prevent corrosion (radiator and block) and freezing or over-heating issues, it plays havoc on the head gaskets and is extremely corrosive on the gaskets.

If it has the appearance of a Wendy's "Frosty" ice cream, it is engine oil.

The determining factor on whether or not the block sealer will work is usually the severity of the leak in the head gasket, not the age of the vehicle. If the leak is small, it should work.

That would possibly indicate a bad PCV valve.

It is likely coolant has gotten into it. If the weather is cold, you may see a small amount of foam under the oil cap. This is caused by condensation and is normal. If the car gets long runs and there's still a lot of foam, then it's a coolant leak.

Potentially, yes, if it's not applied properly. Just pouring it into the system and not letting it circulate thoroughly will just let it amass in the radiator or heater, so it can block a channel, leading to overheating.

You shouldn't do this. It could potentially block any narrow coolant channels, such as in the heater matrix. If you really need to use a sealer, make sure you run the car for a good distance to get it fully spread throughout the cooing system, rather than accumulating in any one part.

Remove the cylinder head, drain all fluids, and clean all cooling passages.