Yes head machined and block checked for flat. of course all old gasket cleaned off (basic stuff). On first failures just blowing between cylinders but this time coolant in oil also. Never got to over heating stage, would still start but missing then ok when warm. I have seen so many references to b/h/g on sites including this one and special h/gs to use. When it first went a friend said don't waste your time fixing it but the mechanic said he wasn't aware of problems with this engine. Well weeks later there was another MA61 in his shop same problem. I also see cars for sale saying the head recently done up. All points to some basic design fault. One place that does copper gaskets refused to make one for it. (don't know why) It seems I should have taken the first advice from my friend. But I thought a mechanic with years of professional experience would know better.
Now mine is single OHC so it differs from many outside Australia but those I have seen here for sale nearly all mention head work. So fix it and sell it seems the go. I guess the 7MGE seems like a likely transplant but still we are talking special gaskets. I want to drive this thing not look at it in the workshop. I might appear to have a bit of attitude here but I bought this car because I just have always loved the look of it and I can only drive it between breakdowns. I believe my mechanic is good doing all the right things. Can't see why an engine can be impossible to fix. Even read of person using a saw blade as a gasket. What is the best gasket for this? Should studs be replaced? Are standard torque settings ok? If I put a super charger on it would I get power comparable with a 7M n/a. Can I super charge with performance cam and chip already in? Is a 7M reliable with correct torque and h/g? Any height problems to put a 7M in? 7M DOHC 24valve?
Appreciate your input
