:( head gasket ... Dead 4x4?

[travelmad]

Confirmation from mechanic.... it is the head gasket and its going to cost more to fix than the value of the car. Short term its ok to drive if we keep coolant topped up all the time, but I'll part exchange and get something not quite so old. Thanks everyone for all the great information and advice.

Now to find something that will tow, be fuel efficient and not cost a fortune!!!

 

[1stclassalan]

.....what is essentially a piece of rubber,

Actually - CAUTION! Pedantic mechanic alert! It's a composite substance with a copper or metal alloy stamping for a head gasket - there are rubber and even cork gaskets in engines but not in joints subject to the combustion chambers ( where the fuel goes BANG!)

Furthermore, if you've been towing with the 'stat' stuck and there's now fumes in the coolant - the head could be bent aswell - adding to your misery - costwise. I'm not that familiar with a Pajero but have a feeling that was rather overpowering it - always best to have a more poweful motor than you need rather than less but appreciate you insurance worries.

 

[scarymare]

Confirmation from mechanic.... it is the head gasket and its going to cost more to fix than the value of the car. Short term its ok to drive if we keep coolant topped up all the time, but I'll part exchange and get something not quite so old. Thanks everyone for all the great information and advice.

Now to find something that will tow, be fuel efficient and not cost a fortune!!!

Smart move - wish I'd done that sooner

 

[Suechoccy]

Confirmation from mechanic.... it is the head gasket and its going to cost more to fix than the value of the car. Short term its ok to drive if we keep coolant topped up all the time, but I'll part exchange and get something not quite so old. Thanks everyone for all the great information and advice.

Now to find something that will tow, be fuel efficient and not cost a fortune!!!

As it's the head gasket and the engine's buggared, you've got nothing to lose by putting SteelSeal into it. So long as the water hasn't been circulating for long enough to rust the bores then you could find the car gets a new cheap lease of life.

 

[mainpower]

Out of interest, and sorry to hijack OP, but what would you quote for:
a clutch
2 rear shocks
cam belt

on a legacy? These will be done separately but interested to have a figure in mind when ringing round for quotes

OP if you do decide to get another vehicle don't discount pick-ups as they are great vehicles and are brilliant for towing as well as having loads of room for your gear

BBH....my OH has a workshop in Biggin Hill and does mobile mechanic/engineering/anything really, but specialises in 4 X 4s and off-roaders, if you let me know the year etc I could maybe get a quote for you. He's far too cheap... ie he'll skim a head for £30/40 and is too honest to rip anyone off!