Article
Don't let the heat beat your engine!
A malfunctioning cooling system can quickly turn a pleasant drive into a stressful situation.
Read moreEngine Diagnosis & Repair
At Westys Auto & 4WD, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier mechanical repairs with a hands-on, honest approach. Specialising in all things 4WD and auto electrical, our workshop is where tough jobs get done right — the first time.
Recently, a 4WD ute came into our shop showing signs of major engine trouble. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how our team tackled it.
The Situation
The customer reported:
- A noticeable loss in power
- Intermittent overheating
- Knocking noises coming from the engine bay
After an initial assessment, we suspected internal engine issues — possibly a failed head gasket or deeper mechanical wear. The next step? Full engine inspection.
Rolling Up Our Sleeves
In the photo above, you’ll see two of our mechanics carefully removing the cylinder head. This is a critical part of diagnosing internal damage and is never rushed.
This level of disassembly allows us to identify:
- Cracked or warped cylinder heads
- Valve damage or failure
- Excess carbon deposits
- Piston wear or scoring
What We Found
Upon removal, we discovered:
- Evidence of a blown head gasket
- Carbon build up around the valves
- Slight warping of the head (likely from repeated overheating)
Luckily, the damage hadn’t reached the pistons — meaning a rebuild was viable without needing a full engine replacement.
The Plan Going Forward
We walked the customer through their options. Based on the findings and the customer's needs, we moved forward with:
- Head machining
- Gasket and seal replacement
- System flush and full reassembly
- Test drive and final diagnostics
Every bolt was torqued to spec, and the engine now runs like a dream.
Why It Matters
At Westys Auto & 4WD, jobs like this reflect what we’re all about:
- Attention to detail
- Support for young tradespeople
- High-quality repairs built to last
It’s more than just fixing cars — it’s about getting our customers back on the road with confidence.
Need help diagnosing an issue with your 4WD or daily driver?
Come to Westys Auto & 4WD — where we treat every engine like it’s our own.
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