I just changed my head gasket on a D16A6 and now I want to pull the head to check the valves because my timing belt broke on my first test drive. The motor has only been run for maybe a total of 30 mins. I used an mls D16z6 gasket. Can I reuse the head gasket? Thanks, Tom.

 

no, but you can do a compression test to check out the valves before you pull the head

 

Dont you mean a leak-down test

 

I can't get the motor to stay running for a compression check. It starts right up and then it dies, unless I give it some gas and rev it.

 

To do a compression test you remove all of the spark plugs and unhook the dizzy, you don't need it to run.

A leakdown test is where you turn the motor so all the valves are closed, and then you check to listen to where the air is leaking from. That is a better test than a compression test.

 

I was thinking about driving it to a shop to do the compression test, but I suppose I could buy the tool and do it myself. To do a leak down test, don't you need an air compressor which is kinda pricey?

 

Yes you do. But for many many car related things, a compressor makes life a lot easier. It's a great investment

The compression tester is also cheaper, but they don't tell you much about your motor. It's good to have one though for quick checks on motors like when you're buying a car.

 

if you feel lucky reusing a condom then you should feel lucky reusing a headgasket

 

just reuse the headgasket.
you can use copper spray if you are worried.

 

no, a compression test is a fast easy way to check for compression.