Head gasket issue
 

Here is what I have, 1995 civic 1.5L, overheated once pretty bad, head gasket blew. Had shop install new one, machined the head, and 500 miles later, blew again. They installed another gasket and has been fine for about 19k miles. Now, engine lost power, bubbles in radiator, emissions sniffers shows hc's in radiator and doesnt run as smooth.. Seems to be another headgasket...THe shop said maybe a cylinder sleeve has warped or something causing them to keep failing...any thoughts?

Re: Head gasket issue
 

Maybe they keep re-using head bolts.

Re: Head gasket issue
 

In most cases it's the head or block surface that is not true causing the problem. The head studs should not be reused at all if your boosting at high levels. The studs stretch and can warp under heat and pressure loads.

Re: Head gasket issue
 

block or head is head is warped. do you know if they checked the block? did they check the head for cracks at all?

Re: Head gasket issue
 

Yes, they did resuse the head bolts.. It is a stock engine, no power adders.. The head was machined but I do not know about the block or if they checked for cracks.

Re: Head gasket issue
 

your block is sleeved?

Re: Head gasket issue
 

Those studs stretch. Always a good idea to replace them. I've heard where some people torque them down 5lbs more than recommended without issues.