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leakdown test shows exhaust valve leak

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by trdracing5, Mar 17, 2013.

  1. Mar 17, 2013 at 5:19 PM
    #1
    trdracing5

    trdracing5 [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I have been having a code of P0303 which is a cylinder #3 misfire.
    I just had a leak down test done.
    The mechanic indicated that I had leakage of 10% on #1 cylinder, 35% on #2, 40% on #3 and 20% on #4.
    He indicated that the combustion chamber leak-down is exiting through exhaust valves.

    Will a new cylinder head fix my troubles?
     
  2. Mar 17, 2013 at 5:47 PM
    #2
    TacomaJPP

    TacomaJPP To secure peace, is to prepare for war

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    How did he know it was specifically the exhaust valves? A rate of decay test is only qualitative.
     
  3. Mar 17, 2013 at 7:01 PM
    #3
    4WD

    4WD cRaZy oLdmAn

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    If it truly is the exhaust valve(s) its because they're burnt most likely, I'd thoroughly check the head for cracks/warp/etc: before shit canning it for a new one & no a new head won't change anything unless its been rebuilt

    (if i'm understanding you right)
     
  4. Mar 17, 2013 at 7:09 PM
    #4
    trdracing5

    trdracing5 [OP] Well-Known Member

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    What I'm trying to determine is if a new (or most likely rebuilt) cylinder head would fix my problems based on the data that I have or is more data needed.
     
  5. Mar 17, 2013 at 7:11 PM
    #5
    trdracing5

    trdracing5 [OP] Well-Known Member

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    From what I have read, when performing a leak down test, if you hear air hissing out of the tailpipe or exhaust manifold this means an exhaust valve leak. I would assume that is what the mechanic did.
     
  6. Mar 17, 2013 at 7:13 PM
    #6
    92LandCruiser

    92LandCruiser Well-Known Member

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    This would be correct.

    You could try sourcing a new head but then unless it's rebuilt you still don't know for certain what you're gonna get, why not pull yours and have it checked out and see what can be done.
     
  7. Mar 18, 2013 at 6:06 AM
    #7
    Mossy

    Mossy Mechanic for Honda

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    Pull yours and send to machine shop they can also replace the valve for you too. Most wont set your valve clearance though
     
  8. Mar 18, 2013 at 10:04 AM
    #8
    TacomaJPP

    TacomaJPP To secure peace, is to prepare for war

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    I would most definitely rebuild what you have rather than buying some Chinese Advance Auto Parts special that won't last 24 months.
     

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