Posted by will (65.54.98.16) on October 12, 2004 at 00:52:56:
In Reply to: A-4 engine (1975 gas) posted by Vern Ader on 20:54:48 10/11/04:
Hi Jon:
I hope it is your head gasket, a common occurance. The 2 studs on the thermostat are used to hold the head on. Try not to have to remove the studs. Sharpen some screw drivers to drive between the head and block, go slow, no big hammer here. work evenly around the head. Remove the thermostat housing first. Soak around the studs with a good penetrate. I like PB parts blaster. If you removed the manifold check the valve bowls for rust through, they are first to go on this engine. You stated you are fresh water cooled so you probably did not rust through. Did you crank your engine a lot before you discovered your problem? With a long cranking trying to start the raw water thru hull should be closed as it will fill the exhaust and backup into the engine. Happens all the time.
will
Good luck, keep us posted.