Head gasket

[Bredie98]

Has anyone replaced the headgasket on a robin eh29c four stroke motor. I
It appears to be leaking oil. I suppose I should replace the timing belt. Any hints on the difficulty on this job or advise. Thanks in advace this is a 2004 ezgo golf cart.

[golfcartg]

I think you've come to a great place for information on tackling the head gasket replacement and timing belt job on your Robin engine. Here’s a comprehensive thread dedicated to this engine to help you through the process.

Firstly, pulling the engine is necessary for accessing the timing belt. Start by disconnecting the battery and labeling all electrical connections and hoses before removing them. Taking clear pictures of the engine setup beforehand will also help during reassembly. Removing the clutch is necessary for gaining access to the timing components, so be prepared for that step, and several methods to remove the clutch are detailed in the linked thread above.

Regarding the timing belt, the Robin EH29c engine is a non-interference engine, meaning that if the timing belt breaks, it won’t cause the valves to hit the pistons, which reduces the risk of major engine damage.

Before diving into rebuilding, why not perform a compression test on each cylinder. This will give you an idea of the engine's overall health. If the compression readings are over 150 psi and consistent across cylinders, it may not need a rebuild, which can save you time and money.

Now, addressing the oil leak: Air cooled engines like the Robin commonly develop leaks from the valve cover gasket, crank seals, or other gaskets over time. To locate the source, clean the engine thoroughly and then run it briefly while observing carefully for any signs of oil seepage. Another method is to use a UV dye in the oil and inspect with a UV light to pinpoint the leak.

For a thorough rebuild, consider replacing not only the head gasket but also the rings, valve seals, crank seals, and all relevant gaskets for a complete overhaul. This will help prevent future leaks and maintain optimal engine performance.

Throughout the process, refer to the rebuild manual specific to the Robin EH29c engine for detailed instructions and timing marks. This online forum and discussions here can provide valuable insights and tips from others who have tackled similar projects, so feel free to use the search feature. Remember to work methodically, keep track of parts and connections, and don't hesitate to reach out for assistance if needed. If you have any more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask!