What causes the head gasket to go bad.

[ajohnson035]

I have a 94 johnson 15hp that I just purchased and it is in the shop with a bad head gasket. What would cause the head gasket to go bad can anyone help. THanks

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: What causes the head gasket to go bad.

Incorrect tension, overheating, corrosion, age.

 

[jonesg]

Re: What causes the head gasket to go bad.

I'd bet on overheating, causing a slightly warped head.
A worn out water pump must account for a big share of that cAUSE.
And dirty carbs causing a lean cylinder which overheats.

 

[F_R]

Re: What causes the head gasket to go bad.

Add to all the above, somebody removing the head and reinstalling it with the old gasket.