MF 1085 head gasket

kwmcderm

Member
Looking at a 1085 in very clean condition with new rubber all around and tons of new parts and great paint 5200 hrs, however it appears that the head gasket is leaking fluid to the outside and running down the side of the block (white powdery residue on block). I have not seen it run yet. There is a lot of staining and looks as if has been that way for a while. I have been reading that this model as well as the 285 had horrible problems with the head gaskets. How concerned should I be? Has the studs vs bolts. Even if it is repaired will it continue to blow head gaskets?
 
If the head and block are NOT damaged then a new gasket will work. I'd replace the stud nuts with the taller Hi nuts like Lawson has to use more threads for strength. When gasket is replaced warm the engine, pull the rocker arm assembly and re-torque all nuts. If not done you WILL blow another gasket. I fill the cooling system and leave off the water pump belt so engine warms up faster, and gets to 190-200 degrees more evenly.
 
Ya that white powder is anti freeze. Dieseltech is correct but i will add one thing. Get some permatex copper head gasket spray when you put the new one on. Apply liberally to both sides of the gasket and quickly bolt it together. Allow it to set for about half hour before you fill and start.
If you can have a machine shop check the deck surface for straightness too. Sometimes an over heat will warp things enough to give sealing problems.
 
Thanks for the reply. Engine work is not my strong point but have several options of folks that could do the work. How long could you run with a leaking head gasket without damaging the engine. If it has been leaking for a while what are the chances it is already damaged. The dealer got it on a trade and told me to take it and run it for a week or so to see what I thought. Just don't want to get into a tractor that is going to need significant engine work. If I bought it and found out it had a bad head or worse a block then I am really getting in deep. Thoughts.....
 
What you don't want is for it to blow out BETWEEN cylinders, that's the worst because it usually torches metal away from both the block and head, and does sleeve damage too. Overheating is usually the cause for that to happen though. You will know right away if it does happen as engine will have a miss on both cylinders..
 

We sell tractor parts! We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today.

Back
Top