Blown Head Gasket Repair Procedure

#driveyourlife

 

blown head gasketSo you’ve had the misfortune of getting a blown head gasket on your car or truck.  Once you have properly diagnosed the problem, either through a trusted mechanic, seeing signs of a blown head gasket your next step is to decide how to fix your blown head gasket.

Options for fixing a blown head gasket:

  1. Take it to a mechanic
  2. Do it yourself
  3. Use BlueDevil Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer

Take it to a Mechanic

This is your best option for getting your head gasket repaired the right way the first time without doing any more damage to your engine.  An experienced mechanic will know enough about your vehicle to know the procedure for disassembling your engine, how to check other components for damage, and how to get everything back together so your engine can run smoothly again.

Do it yourself

Many vehicle repairs can be done with a set of hand tools and limited knowledge about your vehicle, especially with so many how-to videos available on the internet.  Repairing a head gasket isn’t a job that fits into this category.  Here, we will outline the basic steps to replace a blown head gasket, but we only suggest attempting this job if you’ve got the right tools and the knowledge and experience to get the job done.

Blown Head Gasket Repair Procedure:

  1. Raise and support the car securely.  You will need to get underneath the car a few times to do things like drain coolant, remove exhaust components and possibly remove a few accessories.
  2. The first part of the job will include removing everything from the cylinder heads.  This will include disconnecting and possibly removing the battery, draining the coolant, removing the engine belt and accessories, and removing the intake and exhaust manifolds.  During this step, make sure to label all hoses and electrical connectors and put bolts and nuts for components in individually labeled baggies.  It can also be a good idea to keep a notebook of hints to help you put things back together.
  3. Once you’ve got things stripped down to just the engine, it’s time to remove the valve covers and timing cover so you can remove the timing chain or timing belt.  Make sure you fully understand the cam timing procedure to make sure you don’t damage the pistons or the valves during the process.  This is the most difficult part of the process so be careful and take your time!
  4. Remove the cylinder head by removing all the head bolts and carefully lifting the head off of the engine block being careful not to damage either surface.  Once you’ve got the head off it’s a good idea to send it off to a machine shop to be inspected to make sure it is ready to be reinstalled.  Similarly, check the block for flatness, cracks or other problems that would cause things to leak again.
  5. Now it’s time to put everything back together!  It’s important to understand the head bolt torquing procedure and to find out if the head bolts are torque to yield bolts that need to be replaced, or if you can reuse your old bolts.  One the heads are properly installed, you simply reverse your disassembly procedure being careful that the cam and crank timing is set correctly and all new gaskets are used.

BlueDevil Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer

If the cost of a mechanic doesn’t make sense for your car and that procedure sounds scary, you do have another option!  BlueDevil Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer can seal the leak in your head gasket quickly and easily without any disassembly of your engine.  Try reading through our directions to see how easy BlueDevil Pour-N-Go is to use!BlueDevil Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer

 

 

 

 

 

Pick up BlueDevil Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer today at your favorite local auto parts store like:

  • AutoZone
  • Advance Auto Parts
  • Bennett Auto Supply
  • CarQuest Auto Parts
  • NAPA Auto Parts
  • O’Reilly Auto Parts
  • Pep Boys
  • Fast Track
  • Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts Specialists
  • S&E Quick Lube Distributor
  • DYK Automotive
  • Fisher Auto Parts stores
  • Auto Plus Auto Parts stores
  • Hovis Auto & Truck Supply stores
  • Salvo Auto Parts
  • Advantage Auto Stores
  • Genuine Auto Parts stores
  • Bond Auto Parts stores
  • Tidewater Fleet Supply
  • Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts
  • Any Part Auto Parts
  • Consumer Auto Parts

Pictures Provided By:

blown_head_gasket.jpg – By Szena – Licensed by Getty Images – Original Link

561 responses to "Blown Head Gasket Repair Procedure"

561 Comments

  1. Harry Elder on May 6, 2014 at 4:38 pm

    I have bought a can of the head gasket repair. I have a 1997 Lincoln Mark 8 without an access to the radiator other then the overflow container. Do I pour the bottle for one minute in the overflow tank, that is low right now with fluid? Do I remove a radiator hose? do I fill up the overflow tank first? Please let me know how to apply your product, thank you, Harry at harrycelder@msn.com

    • BlueDevil Pro on May 12, 2014 at 3:51 pm

      If your vehicle has a reservoir/overflow rather than a radiator cap, instead of pouring it through the reservoir/overflow, with the car off and engine cold, you may add the product through the top radiator hose. Once it has been added reconnect the hose and start the idle from that point.

      Feel free to contact us with any further questions.

      • rolando on January 2, 2015 at 1:10 am

        I think I did it wrong will that be an issue i did it thru the reservior/overflow do I need to do it again ?

        • BlueDevil Pro on January 2, 2015 at 12:30 pm

          Rolando-

          You may still be alright. However, if you are still getting the same symptoms, instead of pouring it through the reservoir/overflow with the car off and engine cold you should disconnect the top radiator hose and add the product there. Once it has been added reconnect the hose and start the idle from that point.

          Feel free to contact us with any further questions.

          Thanks,

          BDP

          • john on January 13, 2015 at 8:16 pm

            when i use blue devil head gasket sealr on my car how long until i add up coolant agin or does it need to be flush after using the product or can you mix the blue devil and coolant togheter



          • BlueDevil Pro on January 14, 2015 at 10:17 am

            John-

            After the BlueDevil process is complete (after the idle) you should allow the engine to cool down for at least 2 hours. Once it has cooled you may drain the system down to add your antifreeze.

            -BDP



          • Joe Marshall on August 21, 2015 at 3:13 pm

            I have a 1998 Cadillac deville , I have the overheating issue when I’ve been driving for long distances. Went to my trusted Mechanic and was diagnosed with a blown head gasket. My only question is I don’t have a radiator cap to pour it in to. Do pour it in my coolant tank?



          • BlueDevil Pro on August 25, 2015 at 4:14 pm

            Joe-

            If your vehicle only has a reservoir/overflow rather than a radiator cap, instead of pouring BlueDevil through the reservoir/overflow, with the car off and engine cold you should disconnect the top radiator hose and add the product there. Once it has been added reconnect the hose and start the idle from that point.

            Thank You!

            -BDP



          • kya on December 6, 2016 at 5:07 am

            I did the same it runs better but it’s still has the white smoke and losing a little collant now but no longer running hot do u think I need another treatment



          • BlueDevil Pro on December 6, 2016 at 9:01 am

            Kya-

            When did you do your application of the product? Remember, the exhaust system may produce smoke for several hours before it can clear itself out. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • Chris on May 1, 2017 at 8:36 am

            I this k I did the overflow too should I do it again or wait for a few days??



          • BlueDevil Pro on May 1, 2017 at 8:56 am

            Chris-

            The BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer should not be added through the reservoir/overflow tank. Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • Belinda on October 20, 2020 at 12:27 pm

            Hello, my engine overheats after ten minutes 🙁 how can I use this product? I really need to fix my overheating issue



          • BlueDevil Pro on October 20, 2020 at 2:43 pm

            Belinda-

            Unfortunately, if the vehicle is overheating after only ten minutes of running, the leak you have or the symptoms you’re having are a little too extreme for what BlueDevil would be able to repair. Replacing the head gasket may be your best option.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



        • Marquita Oluteyo on September 8, 2017 at 11:37 pm

          If my car doesnt start at all may I still use this product?

          • BlueDevil Pro on September 11, 2017 at 9:29 am

            Marquita-

            In order to get the benefit of using the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer, the vehicle would need to be able to idle for a full 50 minutes. If the vehicle is unable to start, unfortunately, it would not be a good candidate for the product. A hard part repair may be your best option.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • John on August 15, 2021 at 12:33 am

            I have a chevy implala and the oil and water mixed so I drained all the oil out and all the radiator fluid and changed the spark plugs .I’m wanting to fix this problem. Can I bleed the cooling system after I put the head gasket treatment in with antifreeze as the car starts warming up to get the air of the system ?



          • BlueDevil Pro on August 16, 2021 at 8:25 am

            John-

            Thank you for asking about your Chevy Impala. To confirm, are you getting water into the engine oil or is oil getting into the radiator and mixing in with the coolant? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



        • Rico on December 12, 2017 at 4:47 am

          Do i need to mix it with water or antifreeze before pouring

          • BlueDevil Pro on December 12, 2017 at 10:36 am

            Rico-

            You may add BlueDevil with either fresh antifreeze or water.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • BlueDevil Pro on December 12, 2017 at 10:36 am

            Rico-

            With the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer (https://store.gobdp.com/head-gasket-sealer-38386/), you would be flushing the cooling system and running the product with only water in the system. With the BlueDevil Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer (https://store.gobdp.com/pour-n-go-head-gasket-sealer-00209/), you may run that with your existing antifreeze, 50/50 mix or just plain water. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • Charles fonkou on July 30, 2019 at 11:40 pm

            Thank you for your support my dodge avenger 2012 has an over heating issue ,I brought it to the mechanic he told me that it’s the faulty head gasket .
            After the diagnostic done ,he said it could cost me couples thousands dollars to fix it; firstable I’m so pisse up!still having 2 years payment in that dawn car ,like it was my first car being to excited and didn’t take a time choose the one could sweeted my need.
            I’m so sorry for the long comments I’m just so disappointed buying 10 thousand dollars car and after a year you’ve to spend another $2500 for fixed it.
            I poured a blue devil ,and did a mistake to opened the radiator cap after 30min should I pour again also the leack has reduced considerably



          • BlueDevil Pro on July 31, 2019 at 9:45 am

            Charles-

            Thank you for asking about your Dodge Avenger. The reason why you wouldn’t want to open the radiator cap during the 50 minute idle is the product is attracted to air flow. Opening the cap would potentially create another area where the product might think is a leak and react accordingly. If you noticed improvement after your first application, a second application may be worth while. Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



        • Debbie on November 21, 2018 at 7:06 pm

          Followed blue devil head gasket sealant directions and now engine light is on. What caused that?

          • BlueDevil Pro on November 26, 2018 at 8:38 am

            Debbie-

            What are the symptoms your vehicle was having? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



      • will on July 7, 2015 at 11:21 pm

        My Reservoir cat keeps popping off during the idle part

        • BlueDevil Pro on July 8, 2015 at 9:44 am

          Will-

          It is possible that you may be getting combustion/exhaust gases blowing into the cooling system and creating pressure which may be causing the reservoir to “pop off”. To give yourself the best overall chance of BlueDevil working successfully, in addition to the directions, you should remove the spark plug from the cylinder with the leak; this will be the spark plug from the cylinder with a low compression reading. If you are not sure which one that is, you may pull all of the spark plugs and will sometimes notice one will have a white-crystal-like substance on it and/or may look dirty; this is the plug you should pull. Leave that plug out for the 50 minute idle in order to relieve the pressure from building up and thus allowing the product to seal properly.

          Thank You!

          -BDP

          • Sean Luke on November 1, 2016 at 7:37 pm

            So if your are positive which cylinder has the leak you should remove that spark plug during the pouring and idle process? I have a 2004 Civic and I am 100% sure it is cylinder #2 after compression checks on all 4 cylinders I just want to be sure before I do it.



          • BlueDevil Pro on November 2, 2016 at 9:19 am

            Sean-

            If you are getting combustion/exhaust gasses into the cooling system, we recommend removing the spark plug from the affected cylinder. You would remove the spark plug before starting the BlueDevil process, while the engine is cold. Based on your description, you would want to remove the spark plug from the #2 cylinder to relieve some of the pressure from building up, thus allowing the product to circulate and seal properly.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • Brian Hayes on September 24, 2017 at 8:19 am

            What about the fuel pumping into that cylinder for 50 min. Is There a risk of fire?



          • BlueDevil Pro on September 25, 2017 at 9:55 am

            Brian-

            Were you referring to the recommendation of removing the spark plug from the affected cylinder, in the situation of using the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer when combustion/exhaust gases are present? If so, you may also disconnect the fuel injector from the affected cylinder. This would accomplish the same goal. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • rich on May 11, 2022 at 1:26 pm

            thank you for the advice on umpluging the fuel injectors!



          • Bob Waters on January 9, 2023 at 12:52 pm

            Doesn’t the sealant require combustion heat to solidify? If such is the case, wouldn’t removing the plug/spark/combustion from the leaking cylinder eliminate the necessary condition for BlueDevil to work as intended? Is the heat generated by combustion in the other cylinders sufficient to cause solidification?

            I’m working on a 2002 Honda Civic with a head gasket leak that’s blowing coolant from the overflow, and the standard approach to using BlueDevil hasn’t worked, due, I assume, to exhaust gasses exiting through the breach. I’m about to try the method you’ve recommended, but I’m a wee bit skeptical.



          • BlueDevil Pro on January 9, 2023 at 2:48 pm

            Bob-

            The product reacts at around 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Removing the spark plug from the affected cylinder would help reduce the amount of pressure building up, thusly allowing the product to seal better. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



        • noah on April 30, 2016 at 3:26 am

          If my heat don’t work will blue devil still work

          • BlueDevil Pro on May 2, 2016 at 9:48 am

            Noah-

            The reason for putting your heat on with the blower to the max, during the BlueDevil Head Gasket Procedure, is to draw heat from the engine to help it from overheating during the 50 minute idle. As long as the vehicle isn’t going to overheat in that 50 minutes, the product would still be able to seal. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



      • Sky on August 18, 2015 at 12:47 pm

        I have a 2000 Nissan Xterra and I think the head gasket may be blown. If I add Blue Devil, all I do is just pour it in the radiator or top radiator hose then let it run for 50 min? Do i empty the radiator first?

        • BlueDevil Pro on August 18, 2015 at 2:23 pm

          Sky-

          Yes, you will flush the cooling system first and refill it with water. Then, starting from a cold start you will slowly add the recommended amount of BlueDevil through the radiator cap.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

          • Khoury Staten on February 16, 2016 at 8:45 pm

            How much water should be put back in the radiator once it is flushed and before adding the Blue Devil?



          • BlueDevil Pro on February 17, 2016 at 9:25 am

            Khoury-

            Thank you for your question. After flushing the radiator, you should be filling the system back up to capacity, leaving just enough room for the recommended amount of the product. You can find your cooling system capacity in the vehicle’s owners manual.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



      • Keri Couture on August 21, 2015 at 12:44 am

        We are getting ready to purchase and use your product. I have read your instructions and I have a question. It says to turn the heater on but our blower motor is gone so no heat blows what should we do?

        • BlueDevil Pro on August 21, 2015 at 9:38 am

          Keri-

          As long as your vehicle will not overheat during the 50 minute idle then you do not have to worry about running the heater. This step is recommended simply to pull heat from the engine.

          Thank You!

          -BDP

          • Aj on January 6, 2016 at 7:30 pm

            What if it does over heat?what does that mean?



          • BlueDevil Pro on January 7, 2016 at 9:31 am

            AJ-

            Unfortunately, if the vehicle is overheating fairly quickly, it may mean that the leak or symptoms the vehicle is having are a little to extreme for the product. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • Mike on November 16, 2022 at 3:19 pm

            What if the coolant system has a severe amount of oil in it…. Would I just flush the system first then use the product? Or is it even possible to use a product in this scenario?



          • BlueDevil Pro on November 17, 2022 at 8:38 am

            Mike-

            Unfortunately, we do not manufacture a product intended to stop oil from getting into the cooling system. A hard part repair (head gasket replacement) may be your best option.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



      • Shanell on December 12, 2015 at 4:03 pm

        I have an Audi A4 Quattro that is belied to have a blown head , I’ve read many of these comment feeds and I’m wondering if I should keep my radiator completely empty or fill with water like it says in some of Your responses or do I fill with the specialty Audi antifreeze I have that is a concentrate and needs to be diluted or mixed with water ?

        • BlueDevil Pro on December 15, 2015 at 9:32 am

          Shanell-

          For best results, you should flush the cooling system and fill it with water prior to adding BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer.

          If you have any further questions feel free to contact our tech support team at 888-863-0426.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

          • brandon on June 27, 2017 at 11:51 pm

            my truck 2003 dodge cummins 3500 is blowing black smoke out the back and has a loss of power and makes knocking knocking noises. and i can smell it burning oil out the ehaust. and had loss of oil



          • BlueDevil Pro on June 28, 2017 at 9:48 am

            Brandon-

            Thank you for asking about your Dodge 3500. Unfortunately, we do not manufacture a product intended to stop oil leaking from the head gasket, which based on your description, seems that is the case. A hard part repair may be your best option.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



      • Alejandro on March 2, 2016 at 11:09 pm

        My Audi A4 Quattro 1996
        I think has steel multilayered head gaskets. Will still work great?

        • BlueDevil Pro on March 3, 2016 at 11:50 am

          Alejandro-

          Yes, BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer is compatible and will work in your Audi. Feel free to contact us at 888-863-0426 with any further questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Todd C. on March 17, 2016 at 7:19 pm

        I have a 1995 Ford Windstar….I bought a bottle of the head gasket sealer to fix my leak…..do I need to drain all of the coolant in the radiator before adding the sealant?

        • BlueDevil Pro on March 18, 2016 at 9:45 am

          Todd-

          Thank you for asking about your Ford Windstar. As per the directions, you will be removing the thermostat and performing a cooling system flush, with the use of a radiator flushing agent, prior to adding the product. You will only be running the product with water in the system. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

          • William Howes on May 15, 2016 at 1:22 pm

            The bottle says nothing about removing the thermostat, nor flushing the system first. Pleas explain.



          • BlueDevil Pro on May 16, 2016 at 3:25 pm

            William-

            There are two different Head Gasket Sealers that we manufacture.
            You may use either Head Gasket Sealer. The one you have is the “Pour N Go” (16 oz./white label) which is a less concentrated formula that does not require the removal of the thermostat or a flush of the cooling system prior to use. Whereas the “Mechanic Approved” (32 oz./yellow label) requires both the removal of thermostat and a flush before applying the product; the 32 ounce is the more concentrated formula.

            The product with the yellow label will give you best overall results as long as you can remove the thermostat and flush the system prior to use. However, if the thermostat is difficult to remove or you would rather not then you can always use the “Pour N Go”. With the use of either product, be sure to follow the guidelines for the proper amount to use.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • Christiaan on August 31, 2016 at 12:56 am

            I am about to use your product, head gasket sealer. I read on the botel that i need to remove the thermostat before i start the process.
            What i would like to know is, when do i fit the thermostat again, after i had the vehicle run for 50 min or may i fit it before i start the 50 min process?



          • BlueDevil Pro on September 1, 2016 at 9:28 am

            Christiaan-

            Once you complete the 50 minute idle, allow the vehicle to cool off for a couple of hours (at least 2 hours). At that point, you would be able to put the thermostat back in. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



      • Jason on June 4, 2016 at 12:49 pm

        Can u change head gasket later n use same heads or is it like liquid glass and ruin motor?

        • BlueDevil Pro on June 6, 2016 at 3:01 pm

          Jason-

          BlueDevil will not make any future repairs more difficult or harm any components of the engine.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Rick on September 10, 2016 at 3:34 pm

        Could only get half in was cloging the hose? What ti do next

        • BlueDevil Pro on September 12, 2016 at 8:53 am

          Rick-

          It is important that you have drained enough fluid from the cooling system prior to adding the proper amount of BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer so that enough BlueDevil can be added. Not using enough product may hinder the results of BlueDevil.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Wanda on September 17, 2016 at 11:08 am

        What do I do if the water got into to the moter oil is tan stuff when take of oil cap

        • BlueDevil Pro on September 22, 2016 at 10:31 am

          Wanda-

          We recommend using BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer (http://store.gobdp.com/head-gasket-sealer-38386/) to stop the water/coolant from leaking into your engine oil. For proper results we recommend changing your oil before and after the BlueDevil process.

          Feel free to contact us with any questions (888-863-0426).

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Steven ghio on September 21, 2016 at 12:00 am

        Hi, I have a 2000 Jag xkr with a blown head gasket. Car never overheated, white smoke disappeared on way to mechanic. Will not pay 5k for repair. Can I add 16 ounce seal and go to reservoir or do I need to disconnect top hose and do that way.? No radiator cap on car.fluid getting on spark plugs so idling rough. Do I change plugs before or after procedure?

        • BlueDevil Pro on September 22, 2016 at 10:25 am

          Steven-

          If your vehicle only has a reservoir/overflow rather than a radiator cap, instead of pouring BlueDevil through the reservoir/overflow, with the car off and engine cold you should disconnect the top radiator hose and add the product there. Once it has been added reconnect the hose and start the idle from that point.

          You do not need to change the spark plugs before the BlueDevil process; you may wait until the process is complete and the engine has cooled back down.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

        • Sean Lytle on October 22, 2016 at 11:50 am

          I’m curious as to what happened with the Jaguar. I have a ’98 XJR with a bad head gasket.

          • BlueDevil Pro on October 24, 2016 at 12:20 pm

            Sean-

            Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



      • Jake on December 19, 2016 at 8:35 pm

        I have an 03 bmw 325ci i do have a recevour rather than a radiator cap the top radiator hose goes to the thermostat assembly in the block by the water pump how should i do mine

        • BlueDevil Pro on December 20, 2016 at 10:59 am

          Jake-

          Thank you for asking about your BMW 325ci. If your vehicle only has a reservoir/overflow rather than a radiator cap instead of pouring BlueDevil through the reservoir/overflow, with the car off and engine cold you should disconnect the top radiator hose and add the product there; it may be added into the hose or into the opening where the hose is disconnected.  Once it has been added reconnect the hose and start the idle from that point.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Mario castro on February 7, 2017 at 8:22 pm

        I’m ready to use the blue devil but I have a question. I have water on my oil do I need to change the oil first or after the treatment?

        • BlueDevil Pro on February 8, 2017 at 8:53 am

          Mario-

          If you are getting water/coolant into the engine oil, we recommend changing the oil before and after the BlueDevil process. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Danielle on March 7, 2017 at 8:50 pm

        What do u do if the car gets hot while ur trying to have the car idle for the 50 mins. This blue devil repair stuff in in the radiator?

        • BlueDevil Pro on March 8, 2017 at 9:05 am

          Danielle-

          You would want to shut the vehicle off if it’s going to overheat during the 50 minute idle. Unfortunately, if the vehicle is unable to idle for the full 50 minutes, the leak or symptoms your vehicle is having may be a little too extreme for the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer to be effective. A hard part repair may be your best option.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Denise Baron on April 22, 2017 at 6:54 pm

        Once thermostat is replaced do I pour the blue devil/water mixture back in that ran out while changing the thermostat

        • BlueDevil Pro on April 24, 2017 at 9:35 am

          Denise-

          The BlueDevil Head Gasekt Sealer only reacts to heat once. After the 50 minute idle and you shut the vehicle off, any extra BlueDevil in the system would be like extra water. It will not continue to react or continue to seal. It is not necessary to re-add the BlueDevil/water mixture back in to the system. You may refill it with your regular 50/50 mix.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Shey on May 28, 2017 at 1:41 am

        So with the engine OFF I can add it straight into the engine through the end i take off?? And add the whole bottle??

        • BlueDevil Pro on May 30, 2017 at 4:06 pm

          Shey-

          What kind of vehicle are you running the product in? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a better understanding of your application of the product and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

          • bruce on March 1, 2018 at 4:22 am

            2000 chevy ventura van has water leaking in front no water in oil



          • BlueDevil Pro on March 1, 2018 at 9:37 am

            Bruce-

            Thank you for asking about your Chevy Venture. Has the water leaking from the front been diagnosed as a head gasket leak? If so, you would be a great candidate for the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer (https://store.gobdp.com/head-gasket-sealer-38386/). Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



      • Amy Stirewalt on June 15, 2017 at 11:51 pm

        Can I use blue devil pour and go if my car is over heating? ( not removing the thermostat)

        • BlueDevil Pro on June 16, 2017 at 8:47 am

          Amy-

          In order to get the benefit of using the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer, the vehicle would need to be able to idle for a full 50 minutes without overheating or stalling out. Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Dave on July 27, 2017 at 10:47 pm

        Does it work on steel multi layer gaskets

        • BlueDevil Pro on July 28, 2017 at 8:46 am

          Dave-

          Yes, the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer would work on steel multi layer gaskets. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Lance on August 3, 2017 at 1:36 am

        I put in the sealant before I put in the flush now I’m running for 60 minutes.
        Didn’t do flush.
        What do I do now?

        • BlueDevil Pro on August 3, 2017 at 9:16 am

          Lance-

          As long as the system was clean and free-flowing, the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer still would have been able to circulate and seal. Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Linda Hammond on October 16, 2017 at 12:46 pm

        my auto repair shop has had my car for eleven days now and stated it takes steps to put sealant in head gasket is this what is normal to do miss Linda

        • BlueDevil Pro on October 16, 2017 at 4:05 pm

          Linda-

          No, normally it should not take that long to complete the process of the using the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer. All in all, the process could be completed in about 6 hours, depending on any additional steps that may need to be taken ie. changing the engine oil, etc.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Tony on November 18, 2017 at 11:41 am

        I changed my head gaskets on my ford ranger. It took me 3days to do it. It has a Miss on the #1 cylinder now. Been driving it and I found a small leak from the head in that area. Mechanic told me my heads were ok. Instead of tearing it back down I’m gonna put blue devil in it. Hope it works. Another guy I work with works on cars on the side and he says blue devil is the best. Wish me luck

        • BlueDevil Pro on November 20, 2017 at 4:12 pm

          Tony-

          Good luck with your application of the product! Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Menevia Hunter on December 4, 2017 at 10:22 am

        Do you have to drain the water out of your car after the gasket have been seal

        • BlueDevil Pro on December 4, 2017 at 12:58 pm

          Menevia-

          It is not necessary to drain your cooling system out after using the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer, however, you are not getting any additional benefit by leaving the product in the system. Either way would be fine. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Daniel williams on March 4, 2018 at 11:09 pm

        What do i do if my headgasket is blowing from my exhaust pressurizing the engine coolant?

        • BlueDevil Pro on March 5, 2018 at 10:04 am

          Daniel-

          We recommend applying the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer. To give yourself the best overall chance of BlueDevil working successfully is to remove the spark plug from the cylinder with the leak; this will be the spark plug from the cylinder with a low compression reading. If you are not sure which one that is, you may pull all of the spark plugs and will notice one will have a white-crystal-like substance on it and/or may look dirty; this is the plug you should pull. Leave the plug out for the 50 minute idle in order to relieve the pressure from building up and thus allowing the product to seal properly. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Elizabeth M Ingram on July 3, 2018 at 4:07 pm

        How do I remove the radiator hose from a 2005 Ford explorer

        • BlueDevil Pro on July 9, 2018 at 9:28 am

          Elizabeth-

          An upper radiator hose connects the tope of the radiator to the top of the engine. You can disconnect the hose where it meets the radiator and use a funnel to pour the product in. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Karl on October 29, 2018 at 11:48 pm

        Hello. What is the set time of the “pour and go” bottle? and what is the set time for the “mechanic approved” bottle?

        what I am trying to ask you how long does it take the product to cure after you do the 50-minute process.?

        • BlueDevil Pro on October 30, 2018 at 10:42 am

          Karl-

          With both the Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer and the “Mechanic Approved” Head Gasket Sealer(32 oz. yellow label), the product is sealing during the 50 minute idle. We recommend allowing the vehicle to cool off for a couple of hours after the 50 minutes is up, before topping it off with water/coolant or draining and refilling the system.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Paul Hale on November 3, 2018 at 7:03 am

        Should I change my wheels and it has antifreeze and it before using the BlueDevil stuff

        • BlueDevil Pro on November 5, 2018 at 11:08 am

          Paul-

          Please contact our technical support line so that we can get a better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Wayne on February 15, 2021 at 4:56 pm

        If the oil is milky will the product still work or has it got to far gone

        • BlueDevil Pro on February 16, 2021 at 8:39 am

          Wayne-

          Water/coolant getting into the engine oil is a symptom the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer would be able to treat. As long as you are not losing water/coolant too quickly, you would be a good candidate for the product.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Wayne Harrell on March 9, 2021 at 1:10 pm

        I just finished flushing my radiator with blue devil radiator flush and now I put blue devil head gasket sealer in but can I take it for a ride while the fifty minutes waiting time with engine running or wait the50 min before I go for a ride

        • BlueDevil Pro on March 9, 2021 at 1:49 pm

          Wayne-

          As per the directions, you will let the vehicle sit and idle for 50 minutes. You can not take it for a drive during this part of the process.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

      • Jeff Triplett on September 23, 2022 at 11:05 pm

        What if I can’t turn my fan to the max but the heat is at the max and 75% fan?

        • BlueDevil Pro on September 26, 2022 at 8:45 am

          Jeff-

          As long as the engine won’t overheat during the 50-minute idle, you would still be fine. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

          Thank you!

          -BDP

    • dave on April 22, 2015 at 4:39 pm

      I have a 96 s10 4 cyl. No water in oil, but a pretty heavy coolant leak. I added pour and go as directed and am not loosing as much coolant but still loosing some. Can I add another bottle? Can doing so potentially harm anything or clog it up? Thanks

      • BlueDevil Pro on April 23, 2015 at 12:18 pm

        Dave-

        Please contact us at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little more detail and make the best recommendation for your vehicle.

        Thank You!

        -BDP

        • Glen on May 19, 2015 at 10:28 am

          I am curious to read about how this played out. What was the final outcome regarding using another bottle?

        • Jeremy Wiggins on November 9, 2016 at 7:27 am

          I am wondering if this will work if the head gasket that is bad is on the exhaust side of engine.

          • BlueDevil Pro on November 9, 2016 at 8:31 am

            Jeremy-

            As long as the vehicle will maintain idle for a full 50 minutes, and you are not losing more than about a quart of water/coolant, you would be a great candidate for the product. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



    • Lisa on August 25, 2015 at 8:32 pm

      I gave s vanagon and can see the gasket leak do to the gasket blown out. .will your product work to fix the gap in the gasket?? And will your product make it hard to change the gasket at a later time??

      • BlueDevil Pro on August 26, 2015 at 10:09 am

        Lisa-

        Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little more information and help further diagnose your vehicle. Using the Head Gasket Sealer would not prevent or make it difficult to change the head gaskets at a later date.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

      • mike on October 6, 2015 at 12:40 pm

        Lisa: you go girl, on the diggin in & not being afraid to go do a pretty intense ‘Blue job!’ (…as opposed to a ‘Pink Job’ like my sis calls them) as (You can SEE) many men would be afraid to take on something of this deep an endeavor. I’m about to do a Second Mercedes with this, having great results on another a while ago. Hope yours worked out as well as my 1st! Mike, San Jose

    • Mark on September 5, 2015 at 7:26 pm

      I poured Blue Devil head gasket sealer pour-n-go in my radiator after I put water in it and in the overflow. The thing is, I was only able to put half of the bottle because the radiator is full of water already. However, I still had the engine run for 50 mins as directed. I checked underneath if there’s still leak and the gauge, if it’s overheating. Temp level is normal (short of middle) and no overheating for 50 mins and no sign of leakage after 20 mins of engine running.

      My question is, do I still have to redo the procedure to Finnish off the bottle?

      • BlueDevil Pro on September 8, 2015 at 11:00 am

        Mark-

        If you are no longer experiencing a leak, then you would not use the remainder of the bottle. It seems that the half of the bottle used was enough to seal the leak in your vehicle, even though the directed amount would have been the full 16 oz. You should be good to go at this point. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions at 888-863-0426.

        Thank you!

        – BDP

    • Philip Reed on September 15, 2015 at 12:28 am

      I have a 2003 BMW 325i the instructions say you take out the thermostat but on the 325i the thermostat is embedded inside the tube can I still run the Blue Devil with a thermostat inside

      • BlueDevil Pro on September 15, 2015 at 4:01 pm

        Phillip-

        If you are unable to remove the thermostat, we would recommend using the BlueDevil Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer, found here: http://store.gobdp.com/pour-n-go-head-gasket-sealer-00209/ . The removal of the thermostat is not a required step with the BlueDevil Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

        • joey on November 5, 2015 at 11:24 pm

          Do your car have to have water in it while going through the process

          • BlueDevil Pro on November 6, 2015 at 10:13 am

            Joey-

            Yes, you should have the cooling system full with either water or fresh antifreeze.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



        • Steede Maxey on February 11, 2016 at 10:06 pm

          I have a 1999 Mercury Sable with a blown head gasket. My question is will it really work or am I wa sting time and money because my mother had it applied to her 1999Ford Taurus and it didn’t work and was told that it is only a temporary fix.

          • BlueDevil Pro on February 22, 2016 at 3:50 pm

            Steede-

            The BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer carries an overall success rate of over 90%. As long as the vehicle will idle for 50 minutes without stalling out or overheating and will not lose more than about 1 quart of water/antifreeze during that run then there is a very good chance BlueDevil will seal it. Once BlueDevil creates a seal it is a permanent fix.

            Feel free to contact our tech support team at 888-863-0426 with any further questions.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



    • dan on October 13, 2015 at 10:12 am

      You have to pour it in the radiator.

    • Jon on April 29, 2016 at 9:04 am

      Do i have to change my oil before i put the blue devil in

      • BlueDevil Pro on April 29, 2016 at 9:14 am

        Jon-

        If you are noticing signs of water/coolant in the engine oil then we do recommend changing the oil before and after the BlueDevil process.

        Feel free to contact us at 888-863-0426 with any further questions.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

    • Peter Krav on April 29, 2016 at 5:49 pm

      I have a 95 gmc sonoma with a minor heater core leak, the leak is internal so i have coolant leaking fr under my dashboard onto my passenger floor. Will this product work? And where do i add it to on this specific car? Thanks

      • BlueDevil Pro on May 2, 2016 at 10:23 am

        Peter-

        Thank you for asking about your GMC Sonoma. Yes, the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer would treat a heat core leak. You will add the product directly into the radiator through the radiator cap. If the vehicle only has a reservoir or overflow tank, with the vehicle off and engine cold, you may disconnect the upper radiator hose, pour the product in through there, reconnect the hose, and then start the idle from that point. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

    • Roy on July 3, 2016 at 3:44 pm

      Do you leave heater on full for the 59 min while idle

      • BlueDevil Pro on July 5, 2016 at 8:40 am

        Roy-

        Yes, the heater should remain on the “max” setting during the entire 50 minute idle.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

    • Jerry Avilez on September 26, 2016 at 10:16 pm

      I have a 2002 Honda Accord. I recently used Blue Devil and brother I am so far really surprised and happy! This stuff actually works! Now let’s see if it passes the rest of time… I’ll let you all know. ‘

    • Paul on December 3, 2016 at 8:38 pm

      I’m not sure about the final step 6 on bottle:

      “Let engine cool before installing new thermostat. Drain enough fluid to refill with compatible anti-freeze”.

      So the wafer+blue devil+antifreeze mixture is ok for below freezing temperatures?

      Or is it better to drain out all of the water+blue devil and refill with 50/50?

      • BlueDevil Pro on December 6, 2016 at 9:24 am

        Paul-

        The BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer only reacts to heat once (one heat cycle). After the 50 minute idle and the vehicle cools, any extra BlueDevil in the system would be like extra water. You would be fine either way. You can drain enough fluid to add your compatible antifreeze or you can completely drain the system and start over with fresh water and antifreeze for your 50/50 mix.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

    • Ashley on December 13, 2016 at 5:43 pm

      I have an 85 el camino and none of my climate controls do anything. Will that affect an application of Blue Devil Head Gasket repair or can i complete the procesure without running the heat?

      • BlueDevil Pro on December 14, 2016 at 9:35 am

        Ashley-

        Thank you for asking about your Chevy El Camino. The direction stating to “turn heater to Max” is to draw heat from the engine to keep it from overheating during the 50 minute idle. As long as the vehicle is not going to overheat, not running the heat wouldn’t be an issue.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

    • Dawn p Boykin on March 2, 2017 at 6:00 pm

      I had guy at auto parts just pour it into my reservoir with my coolant n its thick n looks as if its not going down. What did they do wrong. Is my car history now

      • BlueDevil Pro on March 3, 2017 at 9:05 am

        Dawn-

        If your vehicle only has a reservoir/overflow rather than a radiator cap, instead of pouring it through the reservoir/overflow, with the car off and engine cold you should disconnect the top radiator hose and add the product there (it may be added into the hose or through the opening).  Once it has been added reconnect the hose and start the idle from that point. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

    • Raymond greer on December 26, 2017 at 3:21 pm

      Hello my name is Raymond Greer and I use your product to seal my head gasket it sealed where the radiator fluid was going into my Oil but now I hardly have no heat I feel heat on both sides of the heater hoses but there’s hardly any pressure what would you think would be my issue thank you for your comments

      • BlueDevil Pro on December 28, 2017 at 11:16 am

        Raymond-

        Have you attempted to bleed the system of any potential air pockets still trapped in the cooling system? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

    • Dielshaan on December 29, 2017 at 10:33 pm

      What gaurenteis is on blue devil gasget repair

      • BlueDevil Pro on January 2, 2018 at 8:22 am

        Dielshaan-

        Our products carry a money-back guarantee.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

    • Jim on September 9, 2018 at 11:40 am

      Does it work if your car heater don’t work

      • BlueDevil Pro on September 10, 2018 at 9:48 am

        Jim-

        The reason for the direction of putting the heater on, blower to the max, is to draw heat from the engine to help from overheating during the 50 minute idle. As long as the vehicle isn’t going to overheat, the product should be able to help seal the leak.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

    • Robs Ortega on December 7, 2020 at 4:15 pm

      Ok so I’m going to try and repair my blown head gasket myself and I would really like to know exactly what tools I need or should use for the job. I’m driving a 2008 Jeep liberty sport 3.7l v6 2wd …… Also I’m replacing the valve covers what tools do I need for that as well

      • BD Auto Pro on December 9, 2020 at 9:27 pm

        Robs,

        For a job that big, we would really recommend getting a repair manual for your Jeep. There are a lot of torque specs and sequencing help that the repair manual will be able to provide. You can read through the procedure beforehand to learn what you might need. For starters you’ll need a full socket set, the largest socket you will probably need would be for the crank pulley bolt. You’ll also want an accurate torque wrenches both in inch-pounds and foot-pounds. We would also recommend a camera to grab pictures of the disassembly process to make sure everything goes back together correctly. Besides that, you’ll want basic hand tools, gasket scrapers, penetrating oil, etc. Lastly, we would recommend having your heads checked by an engine shop while you have them off for flatness and valve condition as well as checking the valve seats.

        Thanks again for your question!
        -BD Auto Pro

    • Brian on October 16, 2021 at 10:12 am

      If my truck won’t idle without floating the throttle will it work ok floating the throttle for the 50 minutes or until it seals?

      • BlueDevil Pro on October 18, 2021 at 8:51 am

        Brian-

        A clean, free-flowing system is what gives the product the best chance of working properly. You wouldn’t really want to increase the RPM’s and put extra compression into the system. Is the engine overheating or stalling out pretty quickly? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.

        Thank you!

        -BDP

  2. Ken on June 25, 2014 at 8:13 pm

    I see that the instructions indicate removal of the thermostat. I have seen horror stories about plugged heater cores. I have a van with a front/rear heater core. Would it be ok to bypass the heater cores while running the first 50 minutes? (I haven’t looked to see how difficult that would be yet). My thermostat, radiator and water pump have all been replaced in the last 1000 miles so I don’t think they have any buildup yet, but the heatercores have over 200,000 miles on them.

    • BlueDevil Pro on June 27, 2014 at 2:42 pm

      Ken,

      Yes, you can bypass the heater core. If you have further questions, please call our tech line at 1.888.863.0426.

      Thanks,
      -BDP

      • Antonio on October 19, 2014 at 6:41 am

        I am under the impression that the poor and go formula does not require a radiator flush or the removal of the thermostat? Is that correct, or not?

        • BlueDevil Pro on October 22, 2014 at 8:25 pm

          Antonio-

          Yes, that is 100% correct. The BlueDeveil “Pour N Go” is an easy-to-use formula.

          -BDP

          • Greg Tripp on August 30, 2015 at 9:45 am

            You seem to have conflicting answers from Pour and Go techs here.

            In an earlier post you tell someone that the system has to be flushed and filled before the sealer and here you tell someone that it is fine to just pour it in….with antifreeze. Which way works best might be the question?

            BlueDevil Pro on August 18th, 2015 – 2:23pm
            Sky-

            Yes, you will flush the cooling system first and refill it with water. Then, starting from a cold start you will slowly add the recommended amount of BlueDevil through the radiator cap.

            Thank you!

            -BDP



          • BlueDevil Pro on August 31, 2015 at 11:07 am

            Greg-

            There are two different Head Gasket Sealers.

            You may use either Head Gasket Sealer. The “Pour N Go” (16 oz./white label) is a less concentrated formula that does not require the removal of the thermostat or a flush of the cooling system prior to use. Whereas the “Mechanic Approved” (32 oz./yellow label) requires both the removal of thermostat and a flush before applying the product; the 32 ounce is the more concentrated formula.

            The product with the yellow label will give you best overall results as long as you can remove the thermostat and flush the system prior to use. However, if the thermostat is difficult to remove or you would rather not then you can always use the “Pour N Go”. With the use of either product, be sure to follow the guidelines for the proper amount to use.

            If the system appears to be dirty or the antifreeze has not been changed in a long time then it would be a good idea to flush the system with the sue of either of our BlueDevil products.

            Feel free to contact us at 888-863-0426 with any questions.

            Thanks!

            -BDP



  3. Craig on June 30, 2014 at 10:53 pm

    Any way I can use pour and go in my 4.3L V6 Mercruiser boat motor with an out drive, no radiator?

    • BlueDevil Pro on July 1, 2014 at 2:19 pm

      Craig,

      The product could only be used on an in-board motor.

      -BDP