Gen4 Head Gasket Replacement

[Ninjazx71]

Hey guys,

Might need to replace my head gasket and stud my head bolts since it might be lifting a bit on my nitrous. I recall originally that the head gasket itself used to be like $800 just for the part, but now I see a number of options for MLS head gaskets for the G4's that are only $199/each (2 required for both sides of course) so this is half the cost. Is there any difference between these newer options vs. true OEM? I'm guessing not since they are all MLS, but wanted to ask.

Also, for anyone that's had their head gaskets replaced, what kind of total cost was it? If you don't want to post here, please PM me as I'm curious whether my current estimate is a bit high or in line.

[Steve M]

I'd probably call Dan Lesser on this one...I definitely don't have any experience, but he should have some solid insight.

What symptoms are you getting?

[Viper Specialty]

When it comes to gaskets... your best move is to call me first!

All of our gasket offerings have features not available on the standard versions, and we have far more options than anyone else.

From all standard gaskets from Gen-1 onwards, to your specific needs... Gen-4 Head? Gen-5 Head? Standard MLS? High Power applications...? Lifter Provisions for service...? Got you covered on every angle.

[Ninjazx71]

When it comes to gaskets... your best move is to call me first!

All of our gasket offerings have features not available on the standard versions, and we have far more options than anyone else.

From all standard gaskets from Gen-1 onwards, to your specific needs... Gen-4 Head? Gen-5 Head? Standard MLS? High Power applications...? Lifter Provisions for service...? Got you covered on every angle.

Thanks Dan, I'll probably give you a ring tomorrow. Need to call the shop and tell them I'll supply the parts and they can supply the fluids if needed.

[Ninjazx71]

What symptoms are you getting?

Steve - I noticed a little bit of oil on the ground under the engine and could see a bit here and there around the heads. Couldn't pinpoint where it was from, so finally took it to my local Viper shop after winter hibernation. Said it was the head gasket and it would have to be replaced. Odd thing is I don't see any coolant (which I thought you'd see if the head gasket was having problems or heads lifting under extreme load) around, and the oil looked pretty clean (for a Viper) when I changed it right before winter when I noticed the drip. I'd expect milky oil if the head gasket was having problems. Was quoted about $2500 for replacement of the head gasket, compression test before and after replacement and fluids. I know there's the Viper tax, but I still thought that was a bit high... hence the start of this thread.

[Ninjazx71]

What symptoms are you getting?

Alternative is to just try studding the head bolts and see if it's just those lifting a bit under extreme load with the nitrous (gotta be close to 1k engine torque on the hit). Any idea how you can check if it's the actual gasket vs. just the bolts stretching?