Head Gasket on a 73

[Cub Cadet 123]

Ok, I think that I already know the answer but I have to ask anyway.......Today while pushing loads of wet snow for 3 hrs with my 73, I blew the head gasket ......it's leaking oil from just about a 1" area under one bolt. Has anyone had any success in this or a similar situation just by torquing the head bolt an extra 2-4 lbs.? For reference, the head gasket is 2 years old and has less than 50 hrs. on it.......or do I need to replace the head gasket? Thanks in advance for your advice and comments......

Cub Cadet 123

[cub123]

It would be best to replace it,they are only about $10,and are worth it to prevent any damage to the head/deck,and after you run it for a while retorque the head to prevent it from doing it again.

[Matt G.]

You need to replace it, flatten the head, and retorque after the first 30 minutes of run time, and probably now and again after that. The 7/8 hp engines don't really have enough head bolts, and the 'fire ring' gasket isn't available for them, so this may be a recurring problem.

[JaysNJcub127]

I just replaced the head on my 73......Really easy on this tractor !!! I am a firm believer in using new bolts.....I used some grade 8 bolts, inexpensive insurance.

[Dave R]

I learned long ago if I ordered a head gasket for a motor, order two. Doesn't cost that much more, then if I mess one up or blow one, the spare is on the shelf.
Dave

[JaysNJcub127]

Originally Posted by Dave R

I learned long ago if I ordered a head gasket for a motor, order two. Doesn't cost that much more, then if I mess one up or blow one, the spare is on the shelf.
Dave

I am on the same page as you, everytime i get a carb gasket or something of the like, I get 2 just so I have extras...........even when it comes to bolts and nuts.......

[Cub Cadet 123]

Thanks fellas.....I kind of suspected that I would need to replace it, but I was kind of hoping that some lil' torquing might do the trick too.

Cub Cadet 123