Re: head gasket
Rathe.... Hopefully all you did was blow the head gasket. Check all the other bolts, screws etc on the powerhead also. If it got that hot, those screws will have worked loose.<br /><br />That engine can not be run without a thermostat.<br /><br />(Thermostat Purpose)<br /><br />Many engines are considered high performance engines and demand a thermostat(s), but many smaller hp engines also require a thermostat for the following reason. The pistons actually distort/twist off round when running. The thermostat is required to keep the outer wall surrounding the steel cylinder, and the cylinder wall itself at a temperture to compensate for the distortion.<br /><br />With the thermostat removed, the difference in temperture between the inside the cylinder and the water jacket quickly reaches a point whereas (in effect) you have a oblong piston running up and down a round cylinder. Bottom line is without the thermostat, the piston and cylinder wall could be damaged in a short period of time.<br /><br />Your engine has a warning horn to avoid overheating. Isn't it working?
