How to Change a Head Gasket on a '96 Eclipse

Replacing a blown head gasket on a Mitsubishi 1996 Eclipse is a major operation. To do so, you must dismantle some of the engine components to access the head gasket, which is the seal between the cylinder head valve cover and the engine block. A gasket can get damaged if the engine constantly overheats. A damaged head gasket must be replaced immediately to prevent oil leaks and further engine damage.

Instructions

1

Park the Mitsubishi Eclipse, turn off the engine and pop the hood.

2

Under the hood, locate the Eclipse's battery. Specifically, look for the black negative battery cable. Use a socket wrench to turn counterclockwise and loosen the bolt holding the negative battery cable clamp to the battery terminal. Carefully remove the cable from the battery with needle-nose pliers.

3

Flush the vehicle's cooling system. Place a tray underneath the radiator. Turn the pressure cap counterclockwise to remove. Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator, and loosen the plug by turning it counterclockwise.

4

Allow the coolant to drain out into the tray. Once the coolant has completely drained, tighten the drain plug. Replace the radiator's pressure cap.

5

Disassemble the engine components to access the head gasket. First remove the engine undercover, using a socket wrench, and set it aside. Unscrew the bolts that secure the distributor, which is located next to the Eclipse cylinder head, with a socket wrench.

6

Locate the cylinder head, positioned atop the cylinder block or near the spark plugs and valve platform. Loosen counterclockwise all bolts from the valve cover with the adjustable wrench. Remove the bolts.

7

Pick up the old head gasket from the top of the cylinder block. Using a scraper, clean away any sticky residue left underneath the gasket.

8

Set the new head gasket in place on the cylinder block, aligning the gasket holes with the bolt holes in the block. Install the cylinder head valve cover back on top of the gasket. Tighten the bolts. Reposition all other engine components that were removed and secure their bolts tightly with the adjustable wrench.

9

Insert a funnel in the radiator fill hole and add coolant to the reservoir. Start the engine and allow it to run for at least 10 minutes before shutting it off. Make sure to replace the radiator fill cap.

10

Install a new air filter. Remove the oil cap, place a funnel inside the oil filler hole and add motor oil to the measurement that your owner's manual specifies. Replace the oil cap and check the dipstick oil level to make sure it is at a correct level. Shut the hood.